A Local-to-Global webcast on preparing for future challenges through subnational diplomacy and global engagement.

Like few events before it, the global pandemic has highlighted how global events can have major impacts at the local level. At the same time, cites are increasingly becoming front line actors in responding to the major global challenges of the day, from climate change to public health to human rights. This discussion explores the growing role of cities in subnational diplomacy and to discuss how local governments can prepare for the greatest challenges of the future through greater global engagement.

Featuring:

Vanessa Ibarra, Director, Office of International Affairs, City of Atlanta

As Director of the Mayor's Office of International Affairs, Ms. Ibarra plans, develops, and implements the international activities of Mayor Bottoms’ Office. She assists in facilitating trade, economic development, tourism and cultural initiatives of the City of Atlanta through liaison with local, national, and international agencies.

Ambassador Nina Hachigian, Deputy Mayor for International Affairs, City of Los Angeles

Ambassador Hachigian is a Pacific Council Director and served as U.S. Ambassador to the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) from 2014-2017. In 2017, Mayor Eric Garcetti appointed Ambassador Hachigian to be the first Deputy Mayor of International Affairs.

Moderator:

Anka Lee, Fellow, Truman National Security Project

Anka Lee is a Pacific Council member and, previously, he advised the California State Assembly Speaker on international affairs, where he created new bilateral initiatives for legislators to address shared policy challenges with foreign counterparts and positioned California to lead on key issues of local and global significance.