Press Release March 24 2010

WTCSD LAUNCHES INTERNATIONAL CLEARINGHOUSE for INBOUND DELEGATIONS

San Diego - March 24, 2010 at 11:00am marks the WORLD TRADE CENTER San Diego’s (WTCSD) official launch of the International Relations Office (IRO).  The IRO will benefit San Diego’s businesses by proactively drawing international delegations to the region. Their focus on fostering international relationships through the world-class reception of visiting delegates has the potential to help grow the regional economy and create jobs for San Diegans. 

Bella Heule, President and Chief Executive Officer of WORLD TRADE CENTER San Diego greeted 100 guests at a press conference introducing the International Relations Office. The IRO offers a comprehensive approach to hosting international delegations and dignitaries. “We want their visit to San Diego to be so impressive and productive that they will want to come back again and again for business and pleasure,” said Heule. “This is a great way for San Diego to set itself apart in this highly competitive environment,” Heule added.

The IRO is a new program created to coordinate the international protocol needs for the San Diego region. Formed as an inter-agency clearinghouse, the IRO streamlines processes among regional organizations and businesses to create a world-class experience for visitors and a positive image of doing business in our region.

”The International Relations Office will welcome visitors from around the world with a great first impression of San Diego,” said San Diego Mayor Jerry Sanders. “We’ll rely on them to help convey the importance of international trade to our region.”

“Qualcomm is pleased to support the launch of the International Relations Office,” said William Bold, senior vice president of Government Affairs for Qualcomm Incorporated. “This effort will provide additional opportunities for San Diego to showcase the achievements and innovations of our diverse industries and research institutions to important international audiences.”

The IRO is jointly sponsored by: San Diego International Airport, Qualcomm, Gen-Probe, California Center for Sustainable Energy, and San Diego Regional Economic Development Corporation/Cali Baja Bi-National Mega-Region.

WORLD TRADE CENTER San Diego (WTCSD) is a non-profit trade association that provides comprehensive international trade services and key global contacts to facilitate and expand trade for regional worldwide clients. Leveraging its global network of World Trade Centers, and affiliate partners, WTCSD is the proven forum for international information, communications and connections. WTCSD is licensed by the World Trade Centers Association (WTCA) in New York City and is affiliated with an international network of over 1,000,000 international members and patrons. For more information, please visit us at www.wtcsd.org

Nancy Nicholson
Manager, International Relations Office
619-615-0868 x120  
nnicholson@wtcsd.org