Press Releases 08
Important Steps Forward for the Merida Initiative
Statement by Ambassador Antonio O. Garza
Mexico City, May 16, 2008 - “This week the U.S. House Of
Representatives took important steps toward funding the Merida
Initiative, which will strengthen the commitment of the United
States to work hand in hand with Mexico to fight the drug
trade and organized crime that impacts both our nations.
“However, this does not yet mean that the Merida Initiative
has been approved, and more work remains. The U.S. has a responsibility
to bolster Mexico’s efforts to strike hard at the drug cartels,
just as we persevere in our fight against drug traffickers
and drug addiction in the United States. I continue to urge
the House and Senate to move forward in approving it.
“The critically important Merida Initiative will enhance
significantly ongoing U.S. programs for cooperating and coordinating
with the Mexican government. It will increase the flow of
sophisticated training and equipment to Mexican colleagues
so that they can succeed in returning calm and security to
all of Mexico. This package will also augment cooperation
between the U.S. and Mexico on many fronts, including support
for civil society, judicial reform and the respect for human
rights, as well as enhancing border security.
“Mexico is locked in a struggle with the drug cartels which
it cannot afford to lose. Criminal organizations are using
bloody tactics to test the will of the Mexican people. President
Calderon has demonstrated that Mexico will not back down and
cede control of the streets to criminals.
“As a neighbor and a friend to Mexico, the United States
has a shared responsibility to combat the flows of drugs,
arms and illicit money that fuel the crime and violence in
both countries. There is no doubt that the Merida Initiative
is in our mutual best interest.” |
