From May 5 to 9, the Spain-U.S. Council Foundation organized a special program designed to strengthen ties with the Hispanic community in the United States, bringing the leadership of the National Hispanic Caucus of State Legislators (NHCSL) to Spain. This influential organization, representing over 440 Hispanic state legislators across the U.S., arrived in Madrid with the goal of presenting its priorities and fostering new partnerships with Spanish public and private institutions.

The program kicked off in Madrid with a warm welcome at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and an overview of the current state of bilateral relations. In addition to enjoying panoramic views of the city from the Círculo de Bellas Artes and touring the Congress of Deputies, the visitors were officially received at a luncheon at Casa de América. The event featured speeches by key figures such as Diego Martínez Belío, Secretary of State for Foreign and Global Affairs, and Josu Jon Imaz, President of the Spain-U.S. Council Foundation.

The agenda revolved around three main pillars: energy, infrastructure, and the Spanish language. The delegation gained firsthand insight into Spain’s leadership in renewable energy through visits to the Spanish Wind Energy Association (AEE) and Iberdrola’s Innovation Center. They also explored the strengths of Spain’s railway network and construction sector during meetings with the Ministry of Transport, SEOPAN, and ACS. Additionally, the group met with Fundación Carolina, a key organization promoting cultural, educational, and scientific exchanges with Latin America.

The trip continued in Málaga, where the legislators visited Google’s Cybersecurity Center and took part in academic sessions at the University of Málaga focusing on the global significance of the Spanish language. They also explored cutting-edge technological initiatives such as the National Digital Content Hub and Escuela 42.

The program’s grand finale was dedicated to the shared history between the two countries. The delegation visited Macharaviaya, the hometown of General Bernardo de Gálvez—a key figure in Spain’s support for U.S. independence—and met with author Leonardo Cervera to gain deeper insight into the legacy of this hero, who was named an Honorary Citizen of the United States in 2014.

With this edition, the Foundation not only strengthens ties with Hispanic legislators from the United States but also highlights Spain’s role as a strategic partner in innovation, infrastructure, and culture—looking ahead to the 250th anniversary of U.S. independence in 2026.