The Mexican maritime domain represents a strategic asset of enormous yet underexplored potential. With coastlines on both the Pacific Ocean and the Gulf of Mexico, Mexico holds a privileged bi-oceanic position that links it to global trade routes, energy security, and regional defense. Despite this, maritime affairs have historically received limited attention in national security debates.

The Institute for Strategy and Defense Research launched this webinar series to open a rigorous, expert-led conversation on the challenges and opportunities facing Mexico’s maritime sector – across both its civilian and military dimensions.

 Over the course of three sessions, prominent specialists from the Mexican Navy, the defense industry, and port security shared their analysis and operational experience, bringing critical maritime issues into the national strategic dialogue.

The onset of a new administration in Mexico offered a pivotal opportunity to envision and shape the nation’s strategic horizon. Against this backdrop, the Konrad Adenauer Foundation (KAS), the Institute for Strategy and Defense Research (ISDR), and Tec de Monterrey jointly hosted the second edition of The Mexican International Security Forum on October 30–31, 2024, at Tec de Monterrey’s Monterrey Campus. 

More than 15 academics, decision-makers, national and international opinion leaders gathered to advance discussions on strategic issues between Mexico and its key partners – fostering spaces for dialogue, convergence, and action.

With its strategic geographic location, significant global economic influence, and soft power, Mexico is well-positioned to influence the international agenda and establish itself as a key global player. Assuming this responsibility requires national reflection across multiple sectors to build consensus and address the global challenges reshaping international relations.