Celebrating the "U.S. - UAE: 50 Years in Partnership"

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In celebration of the dynamic partnership between the United States and the United Arab Emirates, the Meridian Center for Cultural Diplomacy partnered with the Embassy of the United States in Abu Dhabi and the Embassy of the United Arab Emirates in Washington, D.C. to showcase 50 photographs that recall notable moments, events and people. The exhibition traces relationships and initiatives that have shaped five key areas of mutual interest: diplomacy and security, trade and business, health and sports, education and environment, and arts and culture. View the virtual exhibition here.

Inside the Summit for Democracy and a view of Foreign Affairs from Senate

This month, the Meridian Center for Diplomatic Engagement brought foreign chiefs of mission for an Insights@Meridian program featuring Jonathan J. Finer, Principal Deputy National Security Advisor.  He discussed the Biden administration's national security priorities, the importance of revitalizing alliances and partnerships around the world to confront shared global threats, particularly climate change, and forecasted the Summit for Democracy. Chiefs of mission also visited Meridian’s campus for a conversation with U.S. Senator Chuck Grassley (R-IA) on the role of the U.S. Senate in foreign affairs, trade and agriculture. See more of our latest Insights@Meridian programs here.

Improving diversity, equity, inclusion and accessibility around the world

The Meridian Center for Global Leadership and the U.S. Department of State virtually welcomed 86 individuals from around the world digitally to the U.S. to participate in an International Visitor Leadership Program (IVLP) project titled "A Global Moment in Time: Reflections on Diversity, Equity, Inclusion, and Accessibility." Through meetings with American professors, researchers, attorneys and non-profit leaders, participants examined how historical trends continue to impact minorities and the efforts of modern civil rights groups to challenge assumptions and change the status quo. Participants also had the opportunity to further explore the crucial interdependence of the diversity, equity, inclusion, and accessibility concepts, discuss the ubiquity of unconscious privilege and define and reflect on the value of diversity and multiculturalism as understood globally to improve opportunities and access around the world.