March 16, 2018
On March 2nd, Mayor Kevin Faulconer, along with Jerry Sanders, met with Mexicali Mayor Gustavo Sanchez to expand binational collaboration between the two cities. A Memorandum of Understanding was signed by both Mayors and Jerry Sanders signing as a witness, committing to generate, promote, and strengthen cross-border commerce between the two cities. Mexicali is the capital of Baja California and is home to just over one million people, located across the border from Calexico. The Chamber is lobbying for funds to improve the Calexico Port of Entry, in recognition of its positive economic impact to Mexicali and our binational region as a whole.
The meeting agenda also included a tour of Skyworks Solutions, an American based technology Company with a manufacturing facility in Mexicali and an office in San Diego. Skyworks Solutions is one of many companies with facilities on both sides of the border which have leveraged NAFTA to expand their business, creating more jobs and growing the binational economy. Following the tour, a meeting was held with more than ten different Mexicali business organizations where attendees learned that they had much in common and much to learn from each other. Jerry addressed the group stating “we want to connect and collaborate, this partnership is so strong because of what each of us adds to it.”
Mayor Faulconer stated “San Diego and Mexicali are setting an example for how two cities can come together across international boundaries for the good of their citizens. I look forward to collaborating with Mayor Sanchez on issues that matter to our residents such as border infrastructure, public safety and trade.” Both Mayors will be joining the Chamber Delegation Trip to Mexico City in April.
