Today marks the 40th anniversary of diplomatic relations between Mexico and Spain. On March 28, 1977, the Foreign Ministers of both countries made an historic exchange of diplomatic notes, beginning a new stage in the bilateral relationship. Since then, the friendship, respect and cooperation between the Mexican and Spanish governments and societies have grown in strength and scope.

To commemorate this important anniversary, Foreign Secretary Luis Videgaray will travel to Madrid in April. While there, he will co-chair the 12th meeting of the Binational Commission with Spanish Foreign Minister Alfonso Dastis. The commission is the main channel through which the two governments evaluate and give impetus to political, economic, technical and scientific, educational and cultural cooperation, and legal and consular affairs.

Over the course of the last 40 years, Mexico and Spain have continually renewed their partnership, which is based on a shared history and culture. This has become a Strategic Partnership that includes bilateral, Ibero-American, bi-regional and multilateral issues that unite both countries into a community of interests and in their vision of the future.

To commemorate the anniversary, a wide and varied program of educational, artistic, cultural and academic activities will be presented in both countries. Specifically, there will be conferences, roundtables, art exhibits, concerts, plays, dance, book fairs and presentations, film festivals and literary events and special television programs celebrating this important anniversary.