By McAllen Chamber of Commerce
The City of McAllen and Puerto Vallarta signed a Sister City Agreement strengthening bilateral ties and formalizing their partnership last Saturday at the McAllen Performing Arts Center.
McAllen Mayor Javier Villalobos and Puerto Vallarta Mayor L.A.E. Luis Alberto Michel Rodriguez solidified the agreement during the MXLAN festivities. This collaboration, which started in 2022, aims to increase cultural awareness, create educational partnerships, promote business investment, and contribute to the prosperity of both cities. It also marks the 22nd Sister City Agreement for McAllen.
City officials, McAllen International Airport and McAllen Chamber of Commerce teamed up to host the delegation during their four-day visit. Beginning Friday morning, the delegation had the opportunity to experience McAllen’s vibrant culture, including a tour of McAllen Fire Station, Emergency Operations and 311 Center, followed by a private welcome luncheon hosted by Simon Property Group at La Plaza Mall.
As the evening MXLAN festivities began, the Puerto Vallarta delegation joined Mayor Villalobos in cutting the ribbon to launch the celebrations. Together, they proudly led the first Calenda Parade at Oval Park, symbolizing the unity and harmony between the cities. Inside the Convention Center Exhibit Hall, a press conference took place, where officials gave remarks and the Tourism Director for Puerto Vallarta Christhian Salvador Preciado Cazares presented about the city’s tourism attractions, encouraging the audience to experience them firsthand.
On Saturday morning, the official sister singing took place, followed by a lunch on the MPAC stage. The impressive view wowed the delegation, and an exchange of gifts between both cities sealed the newly formed friendship.
City Manager Roel “Roy” Rodriguez, P.E. praised Mayor Michel Rodriguez for their warm hospitality when the partnership began last year. He highlighted McAllen’s long history of international agreements and the decision to become Sister Cities with Puerto Vallarta, “We saw our cultural familiarities and business opportunities, but most importantly, we looked at the opportunity to exchange best practices as a top priority,” he said.
To conclude their memorable visit, the Puerto Vallarta delegation was invited to attend the premium event Spirits Mezcal & Tequila Tasting during the festival. This unique occasion allowed both mayors to explore the festival grounds and enjoy the entertainment.
