Our 2025 Cross-Border Mission was more than just a tour — it was an enriching, inspiring, and enjoyable experience that brought together representatives from Ciudad Juárez, Chihuahua, and the State of New Mexico. We gathered to create a space for exchange, collaboration, and the identification of shared opportunities in binational socio-economic development, as well as to generate strategic synergies across this majestic binational region.
We visited the Santa Teresa Port of Entry, where U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) hosted us for a tour and discussion about the progress, challenges, and projects transforming this strategic border point. We also explored the world of innovation at Virgin Galactic, where we witnessed the power of technology and talent emerging in this region — taking us, quite literally, to space!
But not everything took place in meeting rooms. On the bus, we enjoyed “On-the-Road Talks,” where we learned about key topics to better understand the region’s potential. We heard an overview of the area presented by Mr. Christopher O. Lyons, who explained the strategic role of Santa Teresa in binational dynamics. Gerardo Fierro welcomed us to New Mexico and shared insights about the work of the NMBA. Alfonso Deandar gave an engaging talk on the Santa Teresa International Export/Import Livestock Crossing, highlighting its economic and logistical impact. We also had an adventurous discussion about the War Eagles Air Museum, where, together with Vanessa Martínez, the Museum’s Director, we explored its historical and educational relevance for the region.
During lunch at an iconic restaurant in Las Cruces, Mayra Maldonado from the Hunt Institute delivered a valuable presentation with data on the regional border context, helping us understand challenges and opportunities from a technical and territorial perspective — enriching our understanding of the binational landscape even further.
All of this was made possible thanks to the participation of a diverse network of leaders and organizations, including chambers and business associations such as INDEX, COPARMEX, CMIC, CANACAR, and CADER; binational and border organizations such as the New Mexico Border Authority, Fideicomiso de Puentes Fronterizos, CBP, and Santa Teresa Port of Entry; government and diplomacy representatives from the U.S. and Mexican Consulates, the Federal Government, the State of Chihuahua, the Municipality of Juárez, the City of Las Cruces, and Doña Ana County; academic and innovation centers such as the Hunt Institute and Arrowhead Center; social and economic development organizations like FECHAC, FICOSEC, Desarrollo Económico de Ciudad Juárez (DECJ), Consejo Coordinador Empresarial (CCE), and CODER Juárez; and private sector partners and leaders from the regional ecosystem, including Santa Teresa Cattle Union, War Eagles Air Museum, and TECMA.
From CODER Juárez, we deeply thank every person and organization that took part in this experience. We return with strong connections, valuable learnings, and above all, the enthusiasm to keep building a more competitive, innovative, and united region.
Connecting visions, transforming realities!
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