Join us in welcoming five law enforcement experts from Europe visiting through the International Visitor Leadership Program.
Date: Monday, June 2nd
Time: 8:30 - 10:00 am
Location: Central Community Room, The Central Patrol Division
Admission: $10 (Coffee & pastries included)
About the Delegation
The delegation visiting through the International Visitor Leadership Program (IVLP) is part of the Towards a More Safe and Secure World Series and focuses on Regional Collaboration to Combat Transnational Crime. This group brings together law enforcement officials, prosecutors, and policymakers from Europe who are working to strengthen regional efforts against transnational crime. During their visit, they will explore the American criminal justice system and the legal framework for addressing a range of transnational crimes, including financial and organized crime, human trafficking, smuggling, and terrorism. The delegation will examine the roles of federal, state, and local authorities in detecting, investigating, and prosecuting these crimes, while also identifying opportunities for collaboration between American and European partners to enhance security and combat criminal networks across borders.
Thank you for helping us welcome the following participants to Arizona:
Belgium 🇧🇪 - Steven De Cock, First Inspector Officer, Brussels Capital Ixelles Police
Lithuania 🇱🇹 - Marek Gulbinovic, Deputy Head, Vilnius County Police
Netherlands 🇳🇱 - Danny Baboelal, Manager, Advanced Financial Cyber Crime, Fiscal Intelligence and Investigation Service
Romania 🇷🇴 - Cosmin Daniel Halalau, Chief Prosecutor, Department for International Cooperation and Programs, National Anticorruption Directorate
Türkiye 🇹🇷 - Ercan Arslanoglu, Chief Inspector, Organized Crime Division, Turkish National Police
About GTAZ Global Cafés
Global Cafés are dynamic gatherings hosted by Global Ties Arizona, designed to foster meaningful conversations on international topics in an informal and engaging setting. These events bring together community members, professionals, and global leaders to discuss pressing global issues, share diverse perspectives, and build cross-cultural connections. Whether exploring diplomacy, international business, global security, or cultural exchange, Global Cafés create a welcoming space for dialogue and networking. Join us for insightful discussions that bridge local and global communities, strengthening Arizona’s role in international engagement.
Special Guest
Mark Freeman
Mayor of Mesa
Mark Freeman, elected in 2024, is the 41st mayor of Mesa, Arizona. A lifelong resident, he exemplifies the values of family, hard work, and community. Mark previously represented District 1 on the Mesa City Council from 2017 to 2024 and served as Vice Mayor from 2019 to 2021.
As Mayor, Mark focuses on public safety, economic growth, and preserving Mesa’s rich heritage while planning for a sustainable and prosperous future. Pledges to ensure every dollar is spent wisely, transparently, and in ways that truly benefit Mesa.
Freeman’s connection to Mesa runs deep--his ancestors were some of Mesa's first families, the Crimsons. The Freeman family has farmed in the Valley since 1878, and Mark continues the tradition by growing alfalfa and sweet corn while operating a summer farmer’s market at Brown and Center Street.
Mark retired as a Captain Paramedic after dedicating 31 years to the Mesa Fire and Medical Department. His passion for community service extends to leadership roles in local organizations. He served as President of the Lehi Community Association Board for 12 years and on the Mesa Board of Adjustment and has been active in the Maricopa County and Arizona Farm Bureau for 16 years.
Mark chairs the National League of Cities Public Safety and Crime Prevention Federal Advocacy Committee on the national stage and serves on its Board of Directors. His leadership extends to committees addressing public safety, water resource management, and municipal issues at the state and local levels.
As Mayor, he is committed to improving the quality of life for all residents and ensuring Mesa continues to thrive as a vibrant and inclusive community.
