From heads of state and government ministers to international business and cultural delegations, SJC has served as the front door to Silicon Valley. In close partnership with SVOP, these VIP visits have been coordinated with the highest degree of professionalism, cultural awareness, and protocol expertise, ensuring that the region presents itself as both a global innovation hub and a gracious host.
This partnership has helped welcome over 40 delegations from more than 25 countries. Together, SJC and SVOP have provided seamless arrivals and departures, arranged ceremonial courtesies, including red-carpet arrival ceremonies, and managed the diplomatic logistics that make each visit impactful. Whether the visit involves international trade discussions, civic partnerships, or strategic investment dialogues, SVOP works behind the scenes to ensure every detail is executed with care.
“Bringing our Minister and delegation through San José Mineta International Airport with the support of the Silicon Valley Office of Protocol was an exceptional experience. Even with limited lead time, the coordination was smooth and highly efficient. SVOP’s professionalism and attention to detail ensured everything ran according to plan, allowing us to focus fully on the purpose of the visit. Their partnership with SJC is a tremendous resource for the diplomatic community in the Bay Area. In what was truly an emergency situation, they managed to get us checked in, bagged, parked, and turned around in just 10 minutes — a remarkable demonstration of airport courtesy and efficiency that far exceeded our expectations.” — Micheál Smith, Consul General of Ireland
Over the past ten years, these engagements have included everything from formal ceremonies to business roundtables and community visits. Through it all, SJC and SVOP’s coordination has been instrumental in helping ensure that business and cultural delegations experience Silicon Valley not only as a center of innovation but as a place where global cooperation is valued and encouraged.
“At SJC, we take great pride in being the region’s gateway to the world,” said Mookie Patel, Director of Aviation at San José Mineta International Airport “Working with SVOP allows us to deliver an experience that reflects both the importance of the guests and the global nature of our community.”
“Protocol is about more than ceremony — it is about showing respect, building trust, and creating space for meaningful exchange,” said Deanna Tryon, Chief of Protocol for the Silicon Valley Office of Protocol.
The State Department and the White House formally recognized SJC and SVOP for their partnership this year in “quickly facilitating a successful visit of the President of Senegal to Silicon Valley”. The State Department formally commended SJC and SVOP’s “protocol guidance” and “significant support” to the United States.
The impact of this collaboration goes beyond red carpets and receiving lines. It speaks to something deeper: Silicon Valley’s identity as a global region — one where international cooperation, business partnerships, and cultural exchange thrive.
“As Mayor of Santa Clara, I’ve seen firsthand how this partnership opens doors—not just for dignitaries, but for our entire community,” said Mayor Lisa Gillmor. “These visits generate opportunities for economic growth, cultural enrichment, and civic pride.”
As the world continues to look to Silicon Valley for leadership, innovation, and partnership, the collaboration between SJC and SVOP will remain essential, especially in the exciting year ahead. With the Super Bowl and the FIFA World Cup both on the horizon, the region is preparing to welcome a new wave of international visitors, dignitaries, business and cultural delegations, and global media. Thanks to years of close partnership, SJC and SVOP are ready to rise to the occasion, ensuring that every guest experiences the very best of Silicon Valley.
