Colombian Delegation with Representative Hank Zuber

Harrison County Development Commission was honored to welcome a delegation of mayors, municipal leaders, and economic development representatives from Colombia’s Asointermedias organization to Coastal Mississippi from June 2–5, 2026.

Representing 88 intermediate cities across Colombia, Asointermedias members play a vital role in the country’s economic growth, accounting for approximately 20% of Colombia’s GDP and more than 21% of its population. The visit strengthened relationships, explored future trade and tourism collaborations, and highlighted the assets that make Harrison County and Coastal Mississippi a premier destination for investment and partnership.

Throughout the week, delegates participated in a variety of meetings, tours, and networking events designed to highlight the region’s strengths in economic development, logistics, transportation, tourism, and hospitality. They presented on their cities and received an overview of the Coast’s economic and tourism landscape from Judy Young, the Executive Director of Coastal Mississippi. The delegates also had the opportunity to experience the Coast firsthand through a boat tour of local waterways.

Additionally, they engaged in discussions at the Seafood Museum with municipal leaders, including Mayor Andrew Gilich of Biloxi and Mayor Hugh Keating of Gulfport. These discussions focused on community growth, infrastructure investments, and regional priorities.

Other tours highlighted several of the Coast’s attractions and industries, including the Ohr-O'Keefe Museum of Art, the Biloxi Saenger Theatre, and local tourism destinations that contribute to the region’s visitor economy.

A key focus of the mission was to showcase the Coast's transportation and logistics capabilities. Delegates toured the Port of Gulfport, where they learned about ongoing infrastructure investments and international trade opportunities. They also visited Gulfport-Biloxi International Airport and regional logistics operations that support global commerce and supply chain connectivity. Additionally, they explored Gateway America, where imported and exported foods are treated using Food Irradiation, a method approved by the USDA.

The visit concluded with a renewed commitment to fostering long-term relationships between Colombia’s intermediate cities and the Mississippi Gulf Coast at the newly established "The Downtowner" in Gulfport. Throughout the week, we identified opportunities for future cooperation in trade, port development, tourism promotion, cultural exchange, agribusiness, manufacturing, and economic development initiatives.

We extend our sincere appreciation to the many sponsors, community partners, elected officials, and industry leaders who helped make this mission a success. We look forward to building on the relationships established during this visit and exploring new opportunities for partnership between Colombia and Harrison County in the years ahead.

Colombian Delegation ATTENDEES

Leonardo Donoso Ruiz — Mayor of Chía — Companion: Maria Alejandra Navarrete Artunduaga
Adolfo Romero Benítez — Mayor of Apartadó
Carlos Andres Palacio Burgos — Advisor to the Mayor’s Office of Apartadó
Cristian David Cespedes Correa — Mayor of Yarumal
Nelson Hernán Parra Laguna — Mayor of Mosquera
Salomon Said Arias — Mayor of Girardot — Companion: Maria Camila Bernal Patiño
Jairo Gonzalez Rubio — Administrative Director of the Fire Department of Segovia
Edwin Alexander Castañeda Vahos — Mayor of Segovia
Luis Alberto Quinto Fernenadez — Mayor of Ciénaga
Jorge Humberto Rivas Urrea — Mayor of Rionegro — Companion: Monica Maria Gutierrez Restrepo
Hernan Alonso Restrepo Alvarez — Councilman of El Carmen de Viboral
Lisardo Murillo Arbelaez — Director of International Cooperation of IDEA
Jim Nixon — Internationalization Coordinator of Asointermedias