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With the USMCA review approaching and trade, migration, and security challenges mounting, congressional chiefs of staff, Mexican officials, and industry leaders convened to strengthen the partnership shaping the future of the continent.

By Ellie Gustafson

The United States and Mexico share one of the most dynamic and consequential partnerships in the world: an alliance that shapes supply chains, security cooperation, migration policy, and the daily economic reality of millions of citizens on both sides of the border. As the region prepares for the 2026 review of the United States-Mexico-Canada Agreement (USMCA) and confronts evolving challenges related to trade, migration, and regional stability, sustained engagement between policymakers, industry leaders, and government officials has never been more important.

To advance this dialogue, Center Forward again convened its International Chiefs of Staff Issues Conference in Mexico City in February 2026. Against the backdrop of a rapidly shifting geopolitical landscape, the conference brought together senior congressional staff, Mexican government officials, and private sector leaders for candid, high-level conversations about the future of North America. Through strategic discussions and on-the-ground engagement, the conference provided participants with deeper insight into the opportunities and challenges facing the U.S.-Mexico relationship at a critical moment for the region.

“Center Forward created a unique forum for meaningful dialogue with policymakers, business leaders, and experts who are shaping the future of the U.S.-Mexico relationship,” said Zach Weidlich, Chief of Staff to Rep. Craig Goldman (R-TX). “Beyond the policy discussions, this conference also gave us the chance to build real relationships with colleagues from both parties. Those connections make a big difference when we return to Washington and work together on critical economic and security issues affecting the U.S.-Mexico partnership and our constituents. I’m grateful to the Center Forward staff for creating a space where the open exchange of ideas could flourish.”

Throughout the conference, attendees engaged in dialogues on critical policy issues shaping the U.S.-Mexico relationship. Conversations at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and the Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Development spanned the implications of the USMCA and its forthcoming review, supply chain resilience, and bilateral security initiatives. 

Rather than abstract policy debate, these meetings with senior government officials and industry leaders centered on on-the-ground realities, such as how regulatory changes affect manufacturers, how technology is reshaping trade flows, and how both governments are navigating shifting geopolitical landscapes. The message was clear: cross-border collaboration is not optional–it is essential. From workforce development to migration management and trade continuity, the U.S. and Mexico’s economic futures are deeply intertwined.

The conference also included opportunities for participants to engage with Mexico’s rich history and culture. Attendees participated in a tour of the Museum of Anthropology, followed by a fireside chat with Emilio Cadena, Chairman of the Board of the U.S.-Mexico Foundation. Chairman Cadena led a discussion focused on the U.S. and Mexico’s national security partnership and opportunities for further supply chain integration in the upcoming USMCA review. The conversation underscored a central theme of the conference: North America’s competitiveness depends on strategic alignment between its partners.

“Thank you to the Center Forward team for an enriching and productive experience,” said Anne-Marie Boissseau, Chief of Staff to Rep. Lizzie Fletcher (D-TX). “By engaging in constructive dialogue with Mexican officials and industry leaders, I gained valuable insights into trade, supply chain, immigration, and national security issues impacting this critical bilateral relationship. I also appreciated the opportunity to meet colleagues from across the aisle and build new relationships.”

At a time when economic competitiveness, border management, and regional security dominate policy conversations in Washington, the International Chiefs of Staff Issues Conference reaffirmed that lasting solutions require sustained engagement. As policymakers confront shared challenges related to security, migration, and economic competitiveness, this programming provided senior legislative staff a stronger understanding of the bilateral relationship.

By convening senior congressional staff, government leaders, and industry voices in Mexico City, Center Forward continues to strengthen bipartisan dialogue and cross-border collaboration. The relationships forged and insights gained during this conference will shape policy discussions well beyond 2026, reinforcing a resilient and mutually beneficial U.S.-Mexico partnership for years to come.

Later in 2026, Center Forward will continue its work focused on North American engagement and lead a Policy Mission to Vancouver, Canada, with corresponding goals and objectives.