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-Editorial
Abel Graciano was officially appointed president of the Imperial-Mexicali Binational Alliance (IMBA) at the group’s first meeting of the year on January 9, held at the offices of the Mexicali Economic Development Council (CDEM). Graciano steps into this pivotal role at a time of significant economic, environmental, and political uncertainties impacting the border region.
Graciano opened the meeting by outlining the pressing issues facing the Imperial Valley and Mexicali regions. “The basics we have are infrastructure, environmental issues, education, and economic development,” he said. “We believe everything is uncertain right now with (Donald) Trump’s stance. Although he has shared various statements and, we could say, even threats, we don’t know if they will be fulfilled. What we agreed upon in the meeting that just concluded is that we must wait to see what happens and react collectively, taking advantage of the opportunities. Whenever something like this happens, opportunities arise, and as both valleys—Mexicali and Imperial Valley—we must seize them.”
Opportunities in Emerging Industries
A key focus of the discussion was the development of the “Lithium Valley” initiative and workforce preparation on both sides of the border. Graciano emphasized that while Mexico has significant progress to make, key sectors in Mexicali are mobilizing resources to meet the challenge.
“The institutions in Mexico, specifically in Mexicali, are preparing, although there is still much to do,” Graciano noted. “Let’s remember that Mexico has several important projects that we must take advantage of, such as electromobility and semiconductors, which Baja California is focusing on.”
He also highlighted the importance of Imperial Valley’s strides in alternative energy, particularly solar and geothermal energy projects. “It is crucial to capitalize on what is happening in Imperial Valley,” he added. “I think there is still much to do, but some preparation is already evident, particularly in alternative energies, which is also a priority in the United States and California.”
Strengthening Cross-Border Cooperation
The Imperial-Mexicali Binational Alliance (IMBA) serves as a crucial bridge for collaboration between the two regions. The alliance is led by the Imperial County Transportation Commission (ICTC) in partnership with the Imperial Valley Economic Development Corporation (EDC) and the Mexicali Economic Development Council (CDEM). Its mission encompasses addressing shared challenges and fostering economic growth by improving transportation, enhancing infrastructure, and tackling environmental concerns.
One of the Alliance’s priorities is the implementation of low-cost, short-term improvements that can have a lasting impact. The group aims to establish shared priorities and actionable solutions to tackle specific regional issues. Participants in the IMBA include key stakeholders such as the cities of Calexico and Mexicali, Imperial County, various Baja California state secretariats, Caltrans, and federal agencies like the General Services Administration (GSA) and U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) in the United States, as well as the Secretariat of Communications and Transportation (SCT) and Customs in Mexico. Additionally, representatives from chambers of commerce and other organizations contribute to the collaborative efforts.
A Strategic Binational Vision
Graciano’s presidency comes at a critical juncture as the border region faces both opportunities and challenges in emerging industries like lithium extraction and renewable energy development. With the rapid growth of sectors like electromobility and semiconductors, the IMBA is uniquely positioned to drive economic progress and environmental sustainability.
The meeting also underscored the importance of enhancing workforce development and educational programs on both sides of the border. By fostering binational collaboration, the alliance aims to address disparities in skills and access to resources that could hinder regional growth.
Looking Ahead
The next IMBA meeting is scheduled for March 13 at 10 a.m. in Imperial Valley. These bi-monthly meetings, alternating between Mexicali and Imperial Valley, provide a forum for continuous dialogue and coordination among stakeholders.
Graciano’s leadership is expected to bring renewed focus and momentum to the IMBA’s initiatives. As the border region navigates a complex and dynamic landscape, the alliance’s efforts to strengthen cross-border ties and harness shared opportunities will be instrumental in shaping its future.
The collaborative spirit of the Imperial-Mexicali Binational Alliance reflects a commitment to leveraging the region’s strategic position to address critical challenges while paving the way for sustainable growth and prosperity.
