Canada

In August, 2007 Mayor Dyer visited Montreal, Quebec.  The purpose of the trip for the Mayor was to focus on digital media, as Orlando is in the process of redeveloping the Centroplex property into a digital media "Creative Village." An RFQ came out in January 2008.

Mexico

Monterrey established a Sister City relationship with Orlando in 1995.  Also known as the City of the Mountains, Monterrey is a modern industrial and business center. It is the third most populated metropolitan area in the country, has the highest GDP per capita of all metropolitan areas in Mexico.  The mountains that surround Monterrey offer a breathtaking landscape and harbor many canyons, trails and roads, crossing deserts and forests.  With a renowned convention center, theme park and cultural venues located within Fundidora Park, Monterrey has many similarities to Orlando.

In September 2007, Monterrey held a Sister Cities Summit for its 21 official Sister Cities throughout the world.  Frank Billingsley, Director of Economic Development, represented Mayor Dyer and Orlando, showcasing the City's industries, venues and what else it has to offer beyond tourism.  The focus was on making media connections and what opportunities Orlando provides. 

 

Panama

In September, 2007, Mayor Dyer spent two full days in Panama with the Minister of Economic Development, the Mayor of Panama, as well as trade officers.  The purpose was to capitalize on existing economic opportunities in Orlando and spread the word about future development opportunities to other regions by asking international guests to participate and develop our international connections. Mayor Dyer hosted a luncheon promoting tourism and industry within Orlando with about 25 people. 

The Mayor showcased Orlando and interacted with local businesses, expressing an appreciation with COPA and celebration of the commitment with the COPA flight.  They are now operating 12 flights per week, with projections of 3 flights per day by next summer.