City of McAllen Hosts Inaugural A Morning of Diplomacy

Binational gathering highlights cross-border commerce, economic diplomacy,

and the impact of international shoppers

McAllen, Texas – The City of McAllen opened National Hispanic Heritage Month on September 17, 2025, with its inaugural “A Morning of Diplomacy, a landmark event showcasing the city’s leadership in cross-border collaboration, commerce, and cultural exchange.

Held at the McAllen Performing Arts Center, the gathering brought together consuls general from Mexico, Guatemala, Honduras, and El Salvador, along with state and federal officials, business leaders, academics, and local media. The focus: strengthening economic diplomacy, building binational partnerships, and understanding the pivotal role of middle-income international shoppers in McAllen’s economy.

“This event underscores McAllen’s role as a leader in binational engagement,” said McAllen City Manager Isaac J. Tawil. “Our partnerships with Mexico and Central America create real opportunities for businesses, families, and visitors. We cannot think of our region in terms of independence versus interdependence, we are stronger because we are connected.”

Key Findings on Cross-Border Impact

At the event, Dr. Belinda Román, associate professor of economics at St. Mary’s University, unveiled new data highlighting the purchasing power of Reynosa residents.

The study showed:

• $49.2 million spent by Reynosa residents in McAllen across 33 shopping days (Dec. 2023 – Nov. 2024).
• $79.9 million in total economic impact for McAllen and the region.
• Median household income of Reynosa shoppers estimated at $46,000, representing a rising middle-income class previously under-tracked in border retail studies.

Building Sustainable Regional Ties

Speakers emphasized the city’s commitment to “economic diplomacy,” including expanding international bridges, sister-city partnerships, trade missions, and cultural exchanges. Assistant Secretary of State for Mexican and Border Affairs Carlos Ealy praised McAllen’s leadership: “The border is more than a line. It is an interconnected ecosystem of people, water, energy, and commerce. By working together, Texas and our neighbors in Mexico and Central America can build a future that is more prosperous and sustainable.”

Keynote speaker Max Bouchet, Director for State and Local Diplomacy at the Meridian International Center, added: “The question isn’t whether to partner internationally, but how, strategically and with purpose. When done right, these connections deliver more benefits per dollar than almost any other local investment.”

Partners in Diplomacy

City leaders underscored the critical role of media in elevating McAllen’s profile. “Without the voices of the media, McAllen’s impact cannot reach the audiences it deserves,” said City Manager Isaac J.  Tawil. “Our narrative of cross-border connection, economic vitality, and cultural exchange must be broadcast widely, it is a story that defines who we are and where we’re headed.” Through 13 sister-city alliances across Latin America and the launch of the McAllen International Relations Department, the city is carving out its place as a regional hub for growth, diplomacy, and innovation. “McAllen’s economy is binational by design, and our prosperity depends on embracing that reality,” Tawil added. “We will continue to set the pace, forging partnerships and strategies that propel our region forward.”