International Relations

Mayor Rex Richardson has elevated Long Beach’s global profile by strengthening diplomatic partnerships, expanding trade relationships, and deepening cultural exchange. As home to one of the nation’s busiest ports and a growing center for innovation and advanced manufacturing, Long Beach plays an important role in the global economy. Richardson’s international engagement strategy focuses on attracting investment, promoting sustainable trade, and building relationships that connect Long Beach to partners around the world.

Global Connections and the 2028 Olympics

As Long Beach prepares to host multiple events during the LA28 Olympic and Paralympic Games, the city is expanding international partnerships through a new Olympic hospitality strategy. Several nations have already selected Long Beach as home for cultural hospitality houses during the Games, including Greece’s Hellenic Olympic House, Denmark’s House of Denmark, and Ireland’s hospitality house, creating cultural hubs for athletes, visitors, and residents while strengthening Long Beach’s global relationships.

Protocol and International Engagement

To support Long Beach’s expanding global role, Mayor Richardson appointed the city’s first Protocols Officer in 2024. The position helps coordinate diplomatic visits, support international delegations, and strengthen Long Beach’s engagement with global partners.

Trade and Economic Diplomacy

Mayor Richardson has represented Long Beach on the global stage through international trade missions and economic partnerships across Asia and Europe, promoting the city as a leader in green shipping, logistics, advanced manufacturing, and clean technology. These efforts strengthen economic ties, attract international investment, and expand opportunities for local businesses while reinforcing Long Beach’s role as a gateway for global commerce.

A key part of this strategy is AnchorLB, an initiative focused on attracting international shippers, manufacturers, logistics firms, and global partners to establish North American operations in downtown Long Beach. By leveraging the city’s port infrastructure and growing innovation ecosystem, AnchorLB aims to position Long Beach as a premier destination for international investment.

International Diplomacy and Global Partnerships

Long Beach regularly welcomes Consuls General, Chief Representatives, and diplomatic leaders from around the world, reflecting the city’s growing international presence. These engagements strengthen relationships that support cultural exchange, business development, and educational partnerships while highlighting Long Beach as a globally connected city shaped by international perspectives.

Sister Cities Program

Mayor Richardson has reinvigorated Long Beach’s Sister Cities Program, expanding partnerships focused on cultural exchange, education, and economic collaboration. In 2023, he led a delegation to Yokkaichi, Japan to celebrate the 60th anniversary of the cities’ Sister City relationship and open a park commemorating the partnership. In 2025, Mayor Richardson led an effort to recognize La Paz, Mexico as Long Beach’s newest Sister City. Long Beach is also marking the 40th anniversary of its Sister City relationship with Qingdao, China, continuing decades of civic diplomacy and global collaboration.