SONORA – In an effort to strengthen binational ties and promote economic and cultural development, the governor of Sonora, Alfonso Durazo Montaño met with the consuls of Mexico in Arizona and the United States in Sonora.
The main objective of the diplomatic meeting was to discuss and advance issues of bilateral importance, including the recognition of the route of Father Kino as a World Heritage Site, an issue of significant historical and cultural relevance for both regions.
The meeting also served as a platform to promote cultural events taking place in Sonora and Arizona, highlighting the rich heritage and shared traditions that unite these border states. Culture and tourism, recognized as key drivers of economic growth, were central themes, underscoring the importance of these industries to the well-being and prosperity of communities on both sides of the border.
Participants in this meeting included senior diplomatic figures such as Matthew P. Roth, U.S. Consul General in Hermosillo; Michelle N. Ward, U.S. Consul General in Nogales; Marcos Moreno Baez, Consul General of Mexico in Nogales, Arizona; Jorge Mendoza Yescas, Consul General of Mexico in Phoenix; Rafael Barceló Durazo, Consul General of Mexico in Tucson; and Dulce María Valle Álvarez, Consul General of Mexico in Yuma.
The dialogue between the consuls and the government of Sonora addressed the possibility of expanding cooperation in areas such as education, trade, security and environment, seeking mutual benefit and sustainable development.
The route of Father Kino, an emblematic figure in the history of Sonora and Arizona, symbolizes the historical ties that have shaped the relationship between the two states. Its recognition as a World Heritage Site would not only honor his legacy, but also foster greater tourism and educational interest in the region.
Cultural events, meanwhile, offer a unique opportunity to celebrate the diversity and creativity that characterize Sonora and Arizona. These events not only enrich social and cultural life, but also attract visitors from around the world, contributing to the economic dynamism of the region.
