The Consul of Mexico, Carlos Giralt-Cabrales, will soon begin his new post in China, becoming a new ‘Philly ambassador’ in one of the most powerful economies in the world.

Known for his motto “The more we know each other, the better will treat each other,” the 12 years of service in Philadelphia of Consul Carlos Giralt-Cabrales opened a dialogue of tolerance and cooperation that strengthened the relationship between the country of Mexico and the State of Pennsylvania.

In the process, our Commonwealth has continued to be the second biggest exporter to the Mexican market, selling $4.7 billion in Pennsylvania products.

Recently the Consulate of Mexico celebrated the launch of a new direct sea trade route between Mexico’s east coast and Philadelphia, a new venture that promises an economic boost and job opportunities for both regions.

But beyond the diplomatic relationships between the two governments, a more important development occurred, perhaps unnoticed at first, here in the streets of our beloved Philadelphia.

That development can be seen in the streets and small businesses we now see in South Philly, an area that has become a hub for the Mexican community and other Central American newcomers our city badly needs to recover dilapidated urban areas and revamp its tax base.

The opening of the very first ‘tortilleria’ in the history of the city, as well as the many storefronts that revitalized and brought back to life the Italian Market, announced the arrival of the new cultural diversity in a city that has always been mobilized by a new generation of immigrants.

A different and vibrant Mexican community has arrived and it has proven that is here to stay.

Consul Giralt-Cabrales will be leaving the city to his new post in Guangzhou, China, to continue building bridges not only for the country of Mexico, but now also for Philadelphia.

Best of luck, Carlos!