Gov. Abbott and Coahuila governor celebrate 200th anniversary of 'Coahuila y Tejas'

AUSTIN (KXAN) -- There was a big party at the governor's mansion Monday morning as Gov. Greg Abbott signed a statement of mutual cooperation with the Coahuila Governor Manolo Jiménez Salinas.

The signing marked the 200th anniversary of the creation of "Coahuila y Tejas," according to a news release from Abbott's office. Abbott and Jiménez were joined at the signing with First Lady Cecilia Abbott, the Texas Secretary of State Jane Nelson, as well as other Texas and Coahuila leaders, the release said.

The State of Coahuila is also "a key driver of Mexico's trade economy," saying Texas' exports to Mexico totaled $129.6 billion in 2023, and imports from Mexico were $142.7 billion, the release said.

Texas was part of a twin state before it gained independence from Mexico. Between 1824 and 1835, "Coahula y Tejas" was a twin state created by combining the Spanish province in Coahuila with Texas, the release said.

The provinces were combined because neither had a large population. Abbott spoke on Monday on the special bond over the past two centuries.

"Today we celebrate the 200th anniversary of that historic union. We do so with renewed vigor and enterprise. We are now in separate countries, but we remain committed to the core values that promote economic success and achievement for the people of our two states."

In October 2023, Abbott hosted then Coahuila Governor-Elect Jiménez at his mansion to discuss "border security and commitment to fostering strong economic ties," the release said.