Commercial Diplomacy and the Future of Global Influence

This conversation was part of the 2026 Meridian Summit: Shaping American Influence.

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As trade, technology, and geopolitics become increasingly interconnected, commercial diplomacy is an essential instrument of American economic competitiveness and global influence. This panel at the 15th Annual Meridian Summit explored how government and business can work together to strengthen international partnerships, support U.S. companies abroad, and navigate an increasingly uncertain global environment. The panel featured Conor McQuaid, Chairman and CEO of Pernod Ricard USA, Steve Morrissey, Vice President – International Regulatory and Policy, United Airlines, Joshua Walker, Chief International Affairs Officer, U.S. Chamber of Commerce, and was moderated by Cally Baute, Chief Commercial Officer, POLITICO. 

The discussion examined how policy predictability, resilient supply chains, international connectivity, and technological innovation shape the ability of American businesses to compete globally. 

Here are the Top Takeaways from the Program:

1. POLICY CERTAINTY AND BUSINESS CONFIDENCE

Businesses rely on predictable and transparent operating environments to make long-term investment decisions, allocate resources, and expand into international markets. Shifting trade policies, regulatory changes, and political transitions can create uncertainty for companies operating across borders, complicating strategic planning and increasing the risks associated with international investment. The discussion highlighted the importance of providing businesses with clear communication, consistent policy frameworks, and greater visibility into potential changes so they can anticipate challenges and make informed decisions. While governments may adjust their priorities over time, maintaining a degree of predictability is essential to sustaining business confidence, encouraging investment, and supporting long-term commercial partnerships. By fostering an environment that values stability and open engagement between government and industry, the United States can strengthen its competitiveness, support American businesses abroad, and advance its broader economic and diplomatic interests. 

2. GLOBAL INTERDEPENDENCE AND SUPPLY-CHAIN RESILIENCE

With Pernod Ricard operating in approximately 160 markets, Conor McQuaid emphasized the interconnected nature of international markets and supply chains. Limited visibility into geopolitical developments and changing policies makes international business increasingly challenging, underscoring the importance of stable commercial relationships and effective public-private coordination. These challenges highlight the need for businesses and governments to maintain open lines of communication and work together to anticipate disruptions, mitigate risks, and preserve access to international markets. Strengthening cooperation across borders can help build more resilient supply chains, support long-term investment, and ensure that businesses remain competitive in an increasingly complex global economy. 

3. INTERNATIONAL CONNECTIVITY AS A SOURCE OF INFLUENCE

Steve Morrissey highlighted how geopolitical developments directly affect United Airlines’ global operations. Restrictions on airspace, including the closure of Russian airspace to U.S. airlines, can lengthen routes, increase operational complexity, and constrain commercial opportunities. Maintaining international aviation connectivity is therefore important not only for business and travel, but also for strengthening economic and diplomatic relationships. With United serving customers across approximately 80 countries, the airline’s global network illustrates how international connectivity facilitates trade, tourism, and people-to-people exchange. Preserving access to international markets and improving coordination on aviation issues can help expand commercial opportunities, strengthen ties between countries, and reinforce the United States’ global economic influence. 

4. TECHNOLOGY, ALLIANCES, AND CULTURAL INFLUENCE

Artificial intelligence and emerging technologies, alongside strategic alliances, are likely to be among the most important drivers of U.S. economic influence in the years ahead. The discussion also underscored the enduring reach of American culture—from the global popularity of the NFL to other shared cultural experiences—as a complementary source of international engagement and connection. Investing in technological innovation and strengthening partnerships with allies will be critical to maintaining American competitiveness and shaping the international standards and frameworks that govern emerging technologies. At the same time, leveraging cultural influence and people-to-people connections can build trust, reinforce positive perceptions of the United States, and create new opportunities for lasting economic and diplomatic cooperation. 

5. OPTIMISM AND SUSTAINED GLOBAL ENGAGEMENT

Business leaders need an environment that encourages investment, partnership, and international engagement rather than uncertainty or political hostility. American influence cannot depend solely on any one political leader or administration; it must be sustained through enduring relationships, trusted institutions, and continued engagement with international markets and partners. Maintaining an optimistic outlook on the future of global commerce can help foster business confidence, encourage cross-border collaboration, and reassure companies that international engagement remains a priority. By building durable partnerships across government, industry, and civil society, the United States can strengthen its global position and ensure that its economic and diplomatic influence endures through changing political and geopolitical circumstances.