Sports Diplomacy Delegation with the Embassy of the Netherlands

As the world prepares for major international sporting events like the FIFA World Cup 2026 and the Los Angeles Olympics 2028, Meridian International Center continues to foster global collaboration through sports diplomacy. In partnership with the Embassy of the Netherlands, Meridian hosted a luncheon for a visiting sports diplomacy delegation, setting the stage for future engagement with these historic sporting events.

The gathering convened key representatives from Airbnb, The Smithsonian, the U.S. Department of State, and Jetr Global to discuss areas of mutual interest and explore opportunities for collaboration. Discussions centered on leveraging sports as a tool for diplomacy and economic development, highlighting the role of public-private partnerships in shaping the impact of global sporting events. The delegation's visit underscored the importance of cross-sector cooperation in ensuring that FIFA26 and LA28 leave a lasting legacy of international engagement and cultural exchange.

About the Meridian Global Sports Diplomacy Initiative

Meridian's Global Sports Diplomacy Initiative celebrates sports as a catalyst for inclusive global development, cross-cultural understanding, and equitable empowerment and inclusion of athletes and spectators alike. By partnering with Meridian, companies can demonstrate their commitment to making sports accessible to all and showcase the sports industry's vital role in advancing global diplomacy, international cooperation, and a healthy, more prosperous, and equitable world. This multi-year initiative celebrates the power of sports as a vehicle for diplomacy, economic development, and global health by implementing programs that connect international communities, promote peace, enhance health, and build lasting global partnerships.