Texas Border Business
By Roberto Hugo González
On July 29, 2023, a festive day, McAllen and Puerto Vallarta, two diverse cities, were united as sister cities in an unforgettable celebration that promises to foster unity, collaboration, and mutual growth. Hosted by Mayor Javier Villalobos and the McAllen city commission, the event symbolized a heartwarming union that elevated both cities’ camaraderie to the status of sisterhood.
The City of McAllen, deeply rooted in its commitment to cultivating enduring alliances, saw this union as a testament to its belief in the power of strategic partnerships. “Today, we warmly welcome Puerto Vallarta, our distinguished guest, and it swells our hearts with pride to declare the blossoming of a friendship that promises longevity and mutual growth,” said Mayor Villalobos during the ceremony.
Mayor Villalobos acknowledged each official, staff member, and committee member for their indispensable contributions in forging this unique sister-city relationship. Puerto Vallarta was greeted with a heartfelt ‘Bienvenidos’ to the City of McAllen, an illustration of the city’s unwavering commitment to fostering global collaborations.
Alongside Mayor Villalobos, his wife Annette contributed to this memorable event, cementing the bond with Puerto Vallarta, a city recognized for its vibrant culture and enduring charm worldwide. Mayor Villalobos lauded Puerto Vallarta’s delegation and expressed his anticipation for sharing knowledge and best practices that will undoubtedly enrich both cities.
McAllen, known for its distinctive charm and innovative programs, showcased its commitment to enriching residents’ lives. Mayor Villalobos noted, “In McAllen, we take immense pride in our heritage and leverage it to shape our future. Such initiatives are integral to carving a brighter tomorrow for the next generation.”
The sister city’s signature event was celebrated during the colorful MXLAN festivities, a four-day summer art & music festival that celebrates young Latino culture. The festival offered visitors multiple experiences, including live muralists, an artisan mercado, culinary festivals, and a breakthrough music stage.
Puerto Vallarta’s Mayor L.A.E. Luis Alberto Michel Rodriguez echoed Mayor Villalobos’ sentiments, envisioning the bond as a dynamic, year-round collaboration. He emphasized the shared determination to enhance commercial relations, investment, tourism, technology, education, and cultural roots that define their communities. This union, he stated, propels both cities towards new horizons of collaboration and opportunity.
Mayor Michel acknowledged McAllen City commissioners, the administrative officials of the city of McAllen, as well as the consular colleagues from Mexico, El Salvador, Guatemala, and Honduras. “I extend my appreciation to all members of the Sister Cities Committee of McAllen, Texas, and Puerto Vallarta. I kiss my wife, Chuyita, and greet my daughter Florecita, who is with us today.”
The day, July 29, 2023, was marked as an unforgettable milestone as both cities commemorated the alliance of two dynamic cities. This profound unity expression symbolized their determination to forge a prosperous future.
During these celebratory times, Mayor Michel welcomed visitors from McAllen to Puerto Vallarta, a world-renowned tourist destination, inviting everyone to marvel at the city’s natural beauty. “In Puerto Vallarta, rest assured, you have found more brothers and sisters, more friends, who are always ready to welcome you with open arms because our city is your home.”
The union of McAllen, Texas, and Puerto Vallarta signifies the creation of new friendships but also the promise of fruitful outcomes and strengthened commitment to cooperation, progress, and the well-being of their communities. The evidence of the shared brotherhood and sisterhood fosters peace and prosperity for all, reflecting the true spirit of this grand congregation.
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