JUNE 2024

Stakeholder Working Group Meeting

SBC hosted its May stakeholder working group meeting at the San Diego Foundation offices. Presentations included:

• CBP Trusted Traveler Programs office shared important details regarding the programs, as well as an in depth presentation on how Mobile enrolment events (corporate) can expedite the application process.

• Dr. James Gerber, author, Border Economies also shared his vision about the twin cities composition and how border cities interact with each other including its challenges and opportunities.

• Josue Vazquez, CEO of AZTECA Ferries presented the latest update on the Marine Cross binational ferry which will soon start service from Ensenada into San Diego. Once operational, the vessel will be able to transport 330 passengers.

The Smart Border Coalition stakeholder working group serves as a vital binational forum for stakeholders from both sides of the US-Mexico border to convene, collaborate, and exchange ideas. This platform fosters dialogue and facilitates the discussion and proposal of innovative projects aimed at enhancing border efficiency, security, and economic development. Through its inclusive approach, the working group enables stakeholders to collectively address challenges and identify opportunities for cross-border cooperation, contributing to the advancement of smart border initiatives and regional prosperity.

ARM Cuauhtémoc Ship Visits San Diego Harbor

The 295-foot Mexican Navy training vessel, ARM Cuauhtémoc, visited San Diego Harbor and welcomed over 25,000 visitors during its stay.

ARM Cuahutemoc's purpose and activities include:

• Training: The primary role of the Cuauhtémoc is to train cadets from the Heróica Escuela Naval Militar, the Mexican Naval Academy, in various aspects of seamanship, navigation, and naval traditions.

• Diplomatic Missions: The ship also undertakes goodwill visits and participates in international sailing events and tall ship races, promoting Mexican culture and strengthening international relations.

• Educational Role: Cadets gain hands-on experience in traditional sailing techniques, leadership, teamwork, and maritime skills.

Smart Border Coalition would like to thank Ambassador Alicia Kerber Palma, Consul General of México in San Diego, for the invitation.

Smart Border Coalition visits SKYWORKS semiconductor plant in Mexicali, B.C.

Skyworks designs and manufactures analog and mixed-signal semiconductors, specializing in RF components for wireless communication. Their products support 5G, IoT, and a variety of applications in consumer electronics, automotive, and industrial sectors. Headquartered in Irvine, California, Skyworks is a key player in advancing connectivity technology globally.

Improved infrastructure, efficient and secure border processes, policy alignment and workforce development will provide the ideal environment for high tech investment in our region.

The Smart Border Coalition is thrilled to introduce a new series of border infographics that will provide comprehensive information on border crossings in our region, covering passenger, pedestrian, and cargo details.