Consulates of Paraguay, Guatemala, Mexico move to Coral Gables

Since its founding almost a century ago, Coral Gables has been known for its international appeal.

Today, the city is the home of thriving consular operations with 23 consulates and foreign government offices making Coral Gables its home, Mayor Vince Lago told Miami Today.

“Consulates help us attract businesses and executives to the city,” he said. “They strengthen our international appeal. In addition to the offices located in the city, we have many consuls general who reside in Coral Gables.”

Recently, the consulates of Guatemala and Paraguay relocated and headquartered in Coral Gables. Next month, the Consulate of Mexico is scheduled to move to the city.

The Paraguayan diplomatic office, headed by Consul General Justo Apodaca, moved to Coral Gables after 20 years in the City of Miami.

Proximity to Miami International Airport, a safe, walkable downtown, and access to local and other foreign government agencies were among the reasons for the relocation.

“We were delighted to accept Mayor Lago’s invitation to relocate to Coral Gables and be a part of the great consular family that exists here,” Mr. Apodaca said. “We look forward to being part of this dynamic city.”

This past month, the Japan-America Society of Miami/South Florida and the Italian Cultural Institute also celebrated inaugurations in Coral Gables.

The city is a hub for international trade and the home to more than 120 multinational corporations, including Fresh Del Monte, Arthur Murray, MasTec, Hear.com and Bacardi.

Through the Sister Cities program, the city participates in international exchanges of information and best practices. Currently, the city has seven sister cities: Aix-en-Provence, France; Cartagena, Colombia; La Antigua, Guatemala; Sevilla, Spain; Quito, Ecuador; Santa Tecla, El Salvador, and San Isidro, Argentina.

City officials recently adopted a resolution to begin a Sister Cities relationship with Stellenbosch, South Africa.

“These relationships,” Mayor Lago added, “help serve as platforms for collaboration and business development.”