Texas Border Business
McALLEN, Texas – In a historic show of unity and cultural exchange, McAllen Mayor Javier Villalobos and city leaders hosted eight distinguished delegations from Mexico, accounting for over 62 guests, representing Apodaca (Nuevo Leon), Corregidora (Queretaro), Irapuato (Guanajuato), Reynosa (Tamaulipas), Saltillo (Coahuila), the State of Tamaulipas, Tampico (Tamaulipas), and Zacatecas (Zacatecas).
During the festivities, Saltillo Mayor Javier Diaz Gonzalez and Zacatecas Mayor Miguel Angel Varela Pinedo highlighted the significance of binational collaboration and praised MXLAN as a model platform for promoting their vibrant communities throughout the Rio Grande Valley.
See the gallery below for more images of the event. All images courtesy of The City of McAllen:
Over the weekend, Mexican representatives showcased tourism opportunities and celebrated the unique heritage of their cities. This year marks the 26th anniversary of McAllen’s Sister City partnership with Irapuato and the 10th anniversary with Reynosa. Audiences enjoyed a dazzling performance by Irapuato’s Ballet Folklorico IMCAR at the Sister Cities Stage at MXLAN, spotlighting the rich traditions that bind these communities together.
“As Mayor, I am incredibly proud of our international partners and the deep relationships we have built over the years,” said McAllen Mayor Javier Villalobos. “Having Irapuato, our longest-standing Sister City, represented at the festival filled me with immense joy, especially as they brought their vibrant folklorico ballet to share with McAllen.”
We are grateful to the festivalgoers who visited the Sister Cities booths to explore tourism attractions, immerse themselves in art and culture, and experience the traditions that have long united McAllen with its Mexican partners.
“The presence of our distinguished mayoral guests speaks volumes about the strong ties between McAllen and Mexico,” said City Manager Isaac J. Tawil. “These relationships are paving the way for future binational success. The enthusiasm and energy our guests brought to MXLAN elevated the festival and reminded us why McAllen is such a unique and welcoming city in South Texas.”
