60 years of history, trust & partnerships

An unparalleled forum for senior diplomatic, business & policy leaders to build mutual understanding and strengthen approaches to global challenges

We believe that lasting, personal connections founded on trust and bolstered by open exchange are more necessary now than ever, and we envision the ECD as a catalyst for building understanding and strengthening approaches to challenges that cut across the worlds of business, diplomacy, and policy.

Connecting Leaders

ECD brings together the Washington diplomatic corps, executives, government representatives, and thought leaders to share perspectives and advance understanding of political, economic, social, and cultural challenges and opportunities.

ECD events cover a wide range of U.S., foreign policy, and global issues, featuring diverse speakers and facilitating candid, in-depth, off-the-record conversations.

Find out how to join our unique programs

Cultivating future generations

ECD programs engage ambassadors and involve next generation leaders from across the diplomatic corps.

In partnership with the U.S. Department of State, the ECD administers the Lawrence S. Eagleburger Fellowship, offering U.S. Foreign Service Officers valuable first hand experience of business operations through year-long training assignments in the private sector.