Quintana Roo Governor Reaffirms U.S. Alliance at Freedom 250 Event in Mérida

Mérida, Yucatán — Quintana Roo Governor Mara Lezama Espinosa reaffirmed the state’s commitment to strengthening bilateral ties with the United States during a diplomatic event in Mérida marking the start of celebrations for the 250th anniversary of U.S. independence.

Lezama attended the “Freedom 250” initiative as a special guest at an event organized by the U.S. Consulate in Mérida. She emphasized the strategic alliance between Mexico and the U.S., highlighting cooperation in economic, tourism, and security matters.

The governor noted that over 7 million American tourists visit Quintana Roo’s Caribbean destinations—including Playa del Carmen, Tulum, Cozumel, and Isla Mujeres—each year, boosting the state’s economy, creating jobs, and establishing long-term productive chains.

Lezama stated that the relationship extends beyond trade, encompassing investments in world-class tourism infrastructure, public-private collaboration, air and maritime connectivity, and security coordination.

U.S. Consul Justen A. Thomas praised the collaboration with Quintana Roo, thanking the state government for welcoming and protecting American citizens who visit. He emphasized that their safety is a fundamental priority and described the Yucatán Peninsula region as privileged and globally significant.

Thomas called it an honor to work alongside Governor Lezama, strengthening an extraordinary bilateral relationship based on cooperation, trust, and mutual benefit.

During the event, Lezama described Freedom 250 as “an extraordinary opportunity to deepen this cooperation and celebrate American excellence in innovation and leadership while strengthening our economic ties.”

She added, “We can promote joint projects in sustainable tourism, clean energy, technological development, and professional training.” The governor pledged to continue reinforcing security coordination to ensure visitors have a safe and memorable experience in Quintana Roo.

“Here, today we celebrate the diversity that has made the United States strong and the brotherhood that unites us as neighboring peoples,” Lezama said. “In 2026, we reaffirm our commitment to a relationship based on respect and shared prosperity, convinced that the future will be more prosperous, safer, and freer for everyone when Mexico and the United States work together.”

The Mérida event marked the first official ceremony at a U.S. consular post in Mexico under the Freedom 250 initiative, setting a precedent in the diplomatic agenda between the two nations.