Texas Border Business
McALLEN, Texas – The City of McAllen hosted its annual Morning of Diplomacy, bringing together government officials, members of the diplomatic corps, business leaders and representatives from higher education to celebrate 200 years of shared history between Texas and Coahuila and discuss the future of regional collaboration.
Held as part of McAllen’s annual National Hispanic Heritage Month celebration, the event recognized the cultural ties that have shaped the region while highlighting the economic partnerships that continue to bring communities together.
Check out the gallery below for more images of the celebration: A photos courtesy of The City pf McAllen
Texas and Coahuila share a history dating back to 1824, when the two territories were part of Coahuila y Tejas. That legacy continues to influence the region’s culture, traditions, and commerce. In 2024, the Governors of Texas and Coahuila reaffirmed the relationship by signing a Statement of Mutual Cooperation in Austin commemorating the 200th anniversary of Coahuila y Tejas.
“Two hundred years of shared history have created a connection that continues to shape our communities today,” said Mayor Javier Villalobos. “Events like this give us an opportunity to recognize where we come from while focusing on where we are going together, strengthening our relationships, creating opportunities and building a stronger future for our region.”
The program featured remarks from Carlos Ealy, Assistant Secretary of State for Mexican and Border Affairs, and a keynote presentation from Saltillo Mayor Javier Díaz Gonzalez, “The Strategy Behind Saltillo’s Success.”
The presentation highlighted continued economic growth and Saltillo’s position as a center for manufacturing, investment, and innovation. The State is a leading automotive manufacturing and exporting region, and has benefited from a skilled workforce, strong educational institutions and a growing industrial base.
For the Rio Grande Valley, these developments reinforce the importance of collaboration in areas including trade, logistics, transportation and investment.
The event also featured a video message from Mayor Javier Villalobos, which can be viewed here or below: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=BHkXneH86Vk, along with representatives from the consulates of Mexico, Guatemala, El Salvador and Honduras in recognition of National Hispanic Heritage Month. The messages emphasized the cultural traditions and shared heritage that continue to unite communities throughout the region.
The Morning of Diplomacy is a collaborative effort hosted by the City of McAllen’s International Relations and Retail & Business Development Departments. By bringing together diplomatic, government, business and education leaders, the City continues to create a forum for dialogue and identify opportunities for future collaboration.
The event served as a reminder that shared history can provide a foundation for shared growth, as communities across Texas and Mexico continue building partnerships that benefit the region.
