Tech Diplomacy in the Age of Rapid Innovation: A Global Conversation at DWIH San Francisco

Panelists. / Barak Shrama

This week, the German House of Research and Innovation (DWIH) San Francisco hosted a pivotal international panel that brought together diplomats, tech experts, and industry leaders to explore the evolving role of diplomacy in an era defined by technological transformation. The discussion highlighted how countries around the world are rethinking their diplomatic strategies to navigate the intersection of cutting-edge technologies, geopolitics, and global innovation.

The event, moderated by Zahar Barth-Manzoori, director of DWIH San Francisco, Martin Rauchbauer, co-founder of the Tech Diplomacy Network, and Olaf Groth, CEO of Cambrian Futures and Lecturer at UC Berkeley, provided a platform for thought leaders to discuss the intersection of technology and diplomacy. As emerging technologies like artificial intelligence (AI), quantum computing, and biotechnology continue to reshape industries, the panel explored how these innovations are creating new diplomatic challenges and opportunities for international relations.

India: Aspiring tech leadership

India’s role in global tech diplomacy took center stage through Consul General K. Srikar Reddy’s remarks. Reddy emphasized India’s growing influence in the tech sector, particularly in AI and clean energy. The Indian government’s push for initiatives like the Digital India campaign has catalyzed significant technological growth, positioning the country as a crucial player in global tech governance. With a burgeoning startup culture and a vast pool of skilled talent, India aims to leverage its technological capabilities to address critical global challenges, from climate change to sustainable development.

Germany: Balancing regulation with innovation

Oliver Schramm, Germany’s Consul General, discussed the country’s leadership role in regulating emerging technologies while maintaining a focus on innovation. Schramm emphasized Germany’s strategic position in the EU’s efforts to create frameworks like the EU AI Act, which seeks to balance the advancement of AI with the protection of public interests. He also highlighted Germany’s progress in quantum computing, AI, and mobility solutions, and the importance of global partnerships, particularly with tech hubs like Silicon Valley.

Brazil: Bridging academia and industry

Mariana Ferreira Thiele, Brazil’s Deputy Consul, presented the country’s ambitious approach to tech diplomacy through its Innovation Diplomacy Program. Since its launch in 2017, Brazil has opened over 70 tech-focused sections at embassies worldwide, including in Silicon Valley. These efforts aim to bridge the gap between academic research and industrial application, positioning Brazil as a rising global player in tech-driven diplomacy. Thiele highlighted Brazil’s strengths in AI, quantum computing, and semiconductor technologies, underscoring the country’s commitment to fostering international collaboration and innovation.

Kazakhstan: A digital hub at the crossroads of east and west

Kazakhstan, with its unique geopolitical position, has emerged as a key digital hub in Eurasia. Consul General Nazira Nurbayeva spoke about Kazakhstan’s transformation over the past 30 years, positioning itself as a digital powerhouse. Through initiatives like the Astana Hub, which supports over 1,100 startups, Kazakhstan has attracted global tech giants such as Microsoft and Google. Nurbayeva highlighted the country’s regulatory agility and collaborative approach, emphasizing Kazakhstan’s role as both a supplier of critical materials and a tech innovation partner for emerging economies.

Southeast Asia: Embracing multi-polarity and pragmatism

Gita Wirjawan, former Indonesian Minister of Trade and a prominent Southeast Asian leader, opened a discussion on the region’s ability to balance relationships between global superpowers, particularly the United States and China. Wirjawan highlighted Southeast Asia’s strategic approach to multi-polarity, emphasizing the need to maintain stability while navigating complex geopolitical dynamics. He also underscored the region’s potential as a hub for AI innovation, noting the significant investments required for electrification and renewable infrastructure. Despite these opportunities, Wirjawan cautioned that rising nationalism and economic inequality could undermine international collaboration.

India’s role in global tech diplomacy took center stage through Consul General K. Srikar Reddy’s remarks. / Barak Shrama

Trust and collaboration in global ecosystems

Daniela Caserotto-Leibert, venture capitalist and US Head of Cathay Ecosystem at Cathay Innovation, addressed the importance of trust and collaboration in fostering resilient innovation ecosystems. In a fragmented geopolitical landscape, Caserotto-Leibert stressed the need for a pragmatic balance between globalization and localization. She highlighted Cathay Innovation’s work across regions, from China to Southeast Asia, Europe, and the U.S., and emphasized the role of AI and data expertise in driving competitive advantage. Caserotto-Leibert urged businesses to adopt robust localization strategies and form partnerships with governments to navigate geopolitical tensions and sustain growth.

Knowledge security and ethical considerations

Emilia Pasqualier, CEO of Swissnex in San Francisco, wrapped up the panel by discussing the concept of "knowledge security"—the delicate balance between fostering open research and protecting intellectual property. Drawing on Switzerland’s approach to international cooperation, Pasqualier emphasized the importance of safeguarding critical infrastructure while facilitating innovation. She also advocated for incorporating diverse perspectives, including those from the arts, to address societal complexities and foster a deeper understanding of global challenges.

Conclusion: Building a resilient, inclusive future

As the world becomes increasingly interconnected yet fragmented, the insights shared during this panel underscore the importance of navigating complex global and technological landscapes with a focus on ethics, collaboration, and multi-polarity. With the rapid pace of technological change, nations and organizations must work together, embracing both competition and cooperation, to ensure a sustainable and inclusive future.

The discussions at DWIH San Francisco highlighted that while the challenges of tech diplomacy are immense, they also present unique opportunities for building a more connected, resilient, and innovative world. The future of diplomacy in the tech-driven age will depend on trust, collaboration, and a shared commitment to addressing the pressing issues of our time.