Speaking Engagements
Insights from the front lines of diplomacy and investment.
Edward speaks internationally on:
• Global Cities & Diplomacy
• Cross-Border Investment & Political Risk
• Smart Cities, Climate Tech & Emerging Markets
• Reconstruction & Resilience (including Ukraine)
• Leadership & Personal Journey
Advisory Services
Trusted counsel for governments, investors, and institutions.
Edward continues to advise governments, investors, institutions and clients worldwide on:
Foreign Direct Investment
Political Risk Management
Diplomatic Advisory & Government Relations, leveraging diplomacy to build trusted partnerships and advance strategic objectives
Family Office & Sovereign Fund Representation
International Real Estate & Cross-Border Strategy
Representation of Foreign Investors in the United States
Transforming Global Challenges into Strategic Opportunities
Global Authority
Where investment, diplomacy, and strategy converge.
Edward Mermelstein is an internationally recognized attorney, strategist, and investment advisor. For more than three decades, he has guided governments, sovereign and pension funds, family offices, and corporations through foreign direct investment, political risk management, and cross-border real estate.
Commissioner for International Affairs
Shaping New York’s role as the world’s diplomatic capital.
From 2022 to 2025, Edward served as New York City’s Commissioner for International Affairs, leading the Mayor’s Office in its mission to act as the city’s primary liaison to the United Nations, the diplomatic community, and the consular corps. In this capacity, he represented New York on the global stage, fostering relationships that strengthened the city’s international profile and advanced opportunities for cooperation, investment, and cultural exchange.
Emerging Markets: A Global Vision
Edward Mermelstein is dedicated to advancing investment strategies that strengthen emerging markets, regions where resilience, innovation and global stability converge. Thoughtful capital deployment in these economies not only fuels local growth but also reinforces international security and long-term prosperity.
Ukraine: The First Focus
As Chairman of the Ukrainian Resilience & Opportunity Fund, Edward has made Ukraine the first focus of this broader global vision.
The fund is a highly targeted, actively managed initiative accelerating Ukraine’s recovery. It invests in high-growth opportunities vital to Ukraine’s future and strategically important to its Western allies.
Recognised By Esteemed organizations and Global Economic Councils
Some Kind Words
1
Charles Hallab
President & CEO, U.S.-Saudi Business Council
Founder and Principal, Barrington Global
Senior Strategic Advisor, Mayer Brown / Al Akeel & Partners
“The city, the country and the world need more like you, Ed!”
2
Elias M. Levy
Former Consul General of Panama in New York
“More than 180 missions to the UN and over 90 consular offices in one city, all under your guidance. You leave behind an important legacy. You leave your mark. And for me, there’s a clear before and after. All I can do is thank you for all the support you gave to our consulate and to me personally. And congratulate you for such an amazing job. Congrats on an extraordinary job, and thank you, my brother.”
3
Andrew H. Gross
Director of International Innovation & Partnerships, NJEDA
“You have been the most successful commissioner in this role in my years working with the NYC diplomatic community. It has been a true pleasure to work with you the past few years and bring new life to this office. Congratulations on an incredible run and thank you for being a great partner to team New Jersey.”
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Edward Mermelstein
Connecting Global Capital with Policy and Strategy
Investors, governments, and global partners turn to Edward for trusted insights on diplomacy, international investment, and political risk management. He regularly shares his expertise at world forums such as Davos, the Milken Institute, and the World Government Summit.
Whether you are seeking a strategic advisor, partner in advancing global initiatives, or a keynote peaker, Edward welcomes the opportunity to collaborate, and continues to be a valued voice for international media.
What People Say
“Your leadership over the past four years has left an indelible mark not only on the city, but also on the global diplomatic community that calls New York home. Your deep commitment to inclusive dialogue, meaningful partnership, and innovative diplomacy has strengthened the bonds between New York City and nations around the world. Your efforts have helped to amplify the voice of cities in global affairs and created lasting avenues for cultural, economic, and diplomatic collaboration.
It has been a distinct pleasure and privilege to work alongside you. Your openness, professionalism, and enduring warmth made every engagement both productive and personally enriching. You have set a high bar for what local-global cooperation can look like, and your vision has inspired many of us in our own work.”
— Stenah Shampile (Ms)
CHARGE D’AFFAIRES A.I.
PERMANENT MISSION OF THE REPUBLIC OF ZAMBIA TO THE UNITED NATIONS
ZM/NY/D/101/1/11
“You were a great City representative and helped many of us advance our work globally.”
— Lorraine Cortes-Vazquez
Commissioner at NYCAging
“Commissioner Mermelstein, in the brief time I had the opportunity to work under your leadership, I was truly struck by your kindness, respect, and remarkable capabilities. Thank you for warmly welcoming me to the International Affairs team. I wish you all the very best in your continued journey and truly hope our paths cross again in the future.”
— Carolina N.
Director of Protocol, NYC Mayor's Office for International Affairs
“Dear Edward, my friend,
Only at the end of the road can we truly see the path we’ve walked. I remember when you started, how you changed the vision and mission of the office, how you built relationships with each diplomatic mission in NYC. Always ready to help, to collaborate, to listen… wow.
More than 180 missions to the UN and over 90 consular offices in one city, all under your guidance. You leave behind an important legacy. You leave your mark. And for me, there’s a clear before and after. All I can do is thank you for all the support you gave to our consulate and to me personally. And congratulate you for such an amazing job. Congrats on an extraordinary job, and thank you, my brother.”
— Elias M. Levy
Former Consul General of Panama in New York
“Ed: You are the best to ever have held the job. New York City owes you a great debt for your service. You have invigorated business in NY from foreign nations as a beacon of light for these countries to see our best. You are the most loyal person and you have set a great example for all of us to follow. As a New Yorker since birth, I am thankful for your service.”
— Adam Leitman Bailey
Partner at Adam Leitman Bailey, P.C.
“Edward Mermelstein, incredible work as NYC’s Commissioner for International Affairs. I am very fortunate to know you. You are very generous in your approach to building trust, collaboration, equity and growth. Can't wait to hear what you are doing next.”
— Dr. Elizabeth Shaw
Board Advisor, Moxie Global | Multi-award winning | Featured in Forbes
“Edward Mermelstein, you will be missed! You served tirelessly on behalf of the City over the past four years and have so much to be proud of. Our team at EDC is immensely grateful for your support.”
— Daniel Clark
VP / Director of Business Development, NYCEDC
Innovation Officer, U.S. Army
“Ed, thank you for all you’ve done helping the UN diplomatic community. It was a pleasure to work with you!”
— James Donovan
Minister Counselor, Host Country Affairs, U.S. Department of State
“Edward, it’s been a true pleasure collaborating with you during your time as Commissioner. Your leadership has made a lasting impact on New York’s international engagement, and the Korean American community deeply values your support and vision.”
— James S. Kim
Chairman, Korean American Chamber of Commerce USA
“Dear Ed, thank you for your continuous support and your extraordinary service to New York City and its diplomatic community.”
— Helene Steinhaeusl
Former Ambassador of Austria to Indonesia, Timor Leste & ASEAN
Former Consul General of Austria in New York
“It’s been a pleasure working with you, Edward. You worked tirelessly to represent New York City on the global stage. Thank you for your leadership and support in showing NYC is open for business. Wishing you continued success and fulfillment in your next chapter. Your impact will last.”
— Youcif Almegaryaf
NYCEDC – Capital Attraction, Emerging Industries
“Your tireless efforts over the past four years have elevated New York City’s global presence and set a new standard for subnational diplomacy and international collaboration. It’s been an honor to witness your dedication to strengthening the city’s ties with the world.”
— Rauan Tleulin
Consul General, New York
“You have been the most successful commissioner in this role in my years working with the NYC diplomatic community. It has been a true pleasure to work with you the past few years and bring new life to this office. Congratulations on an incredible run and thank you for being a great partner to team New Jersey.”
— Andrew H. Gross
Director of International Innovation & Partnerships, NJEDA