Yesterday in Austin, Governor Greg Abbott of Texas inked a Statement of Mutual Cooperation with Coahuila Governor Manolo Jiménez Salinas. As reported by the Office of the Texas Governor, this act commemorates the 200th anniversary of the formation of the state "Coahuila y Tejas" and aims to strengthen economic and cultural bonds between the two regions.
"Today is a historic day where we recognize a shared story that began 200 years ago," Governor Abbott stated during the signing ceremony. He continued, explaining "Two centuries ago, we were one state, 'Coahuila y Tejas,' where people were coming to find success, opportunity, and a better life for their families." The ceremony was attended by not only the governors but also First Lady Cecilia Abbott, Texas Secretary of State Jane Nelson, and other state, local, and business leaders from Texas and Coahuila, as per the Office of the Texas Governor.
The signed SMC will foster collaboration, enhance prosperity in both areas, and continue the development of positive relations. It touches on critical sectors such as advanced manufacturing, biotechnology, and energy. The statement also reinforces a commitment to public safety and economic growth, referring back to previous agreements that include border security measures to manage illegal immigration.
As pointed out by the Office of the Texas Governor, Mexico is Texas' top export destination and the main source of imports, with trade playing a significant role between the two economies. Last year, Texas' exports to Mexico were at $129.6 billion and imports totaled $142.7 billion. "Texas has been the Best State for Business for 20 years in a row and has the Best Business Climate in the nation," touted Governor Abbott, attributing this to the state's talented workforce and sensible regulations. Additionally, the historical partnership is underlined by the fact that Saltillo, the capital of Coahuila, has been a sister city to Austin for 50 years.
In previous interactions, detailed in a meeting in October 2023, the leaders from Texas and Coahuila expressed their ongoing commitment to border security and fostering robust economic connections. Commemorating two centuries since their unification as "Coahuila y Tejas," the recent document signed by Abbott and Jiménez signals an intention for both states to stride towards a future built on bilateral cooperation and shared economic interest.
