Pueblo, CO – In a move aimed at strengthening international ties and responding to ongoing trade challenges, Colorado Governor Jared Polis announced the creation of Colorado-Mexico Friendship Day, which will be observed annually on April 23. The new observance was unveiled at a ceremony at the State Capitol, where Polis was joined by Mexican Consul General Pavel Meléndez Cruz.
The announcement comes on the heels of significant national economic concerns, particularly in response to tariffs imposed by former President Donald Trump. Polis criticized these tariffs, which he argued have contributed to rising costs for Colorado businesses and residents. He called for bipartisan action in Congress to reverse the federal trade policies that he believes are driving the U.S. toward a recession.
“Trump’s tariff tax increase is raising costs on hardworking people, businesses, housing, agriculture, and manufacturing, and creating uncertainty for businesses,” Polis remarked. “I hope our state and country do not fall into a recession because of the economic uncertainty caused by these reckless tariffs. In Colorado, we are doing everything we can to ensure our economy, jobs, and our future are not destroyed by President Trump’s tariff tax.”
The announcement of Colorado-Mexico Friendship Day is seen as a celebration of the strong economic relationship between Colorado and Mexico. According to Polis’ office, Mexico is the state’s top export partner, with $1.7 billion worth of goods shipped there in 2024. The governor emphasized that this new day of observance would offer Coloradans the opportunity to celebrate and reinforce the critical trade ties between the two regions.
“Colorado-Mexico Friendship Day is a great opportunity for businesses and Coloradans to celebrate the strong trade partnerships with our allies,” Polis added.
The state’s focus on Mexico is no surprise. In 2024, approximately 17% of Colorado’s total exports were sent to Mexico, making it a cornerstone of the state’s economic activity. This day of recognition not only seeks to honor Mexico as a vital trading partner but also underscores the importance of maintaining positive international relationships amidst shifting trade dynamics.
While the creation of Colorado-Mexico Friendship Day may be seen as symbolic, it also serves as a reminder of the significant role that state-level diplomacy and trade relations play in the broader context of national economic policy. Governor Polis’ action signals Colorado’s commitment to fostering global trade partnerships, particularly as federal trade policy remains in flux.
