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Press Releases in English - 2006

Condolence Book for President Gerald Ford
U.S. Embassy Closed in Remembrance on Tuesday January 2
December 29, 2006 — The U.S. Embassy in Mexico City and its consulates throughout Mexico will be closed on Tuesday, January 2, in compliance with President Bush's declaration of a day of mourning for the passing of Gerald R. Ford. A condolence book has been opened at the Embassy and will be available from January 3 for those wishing to sign it.(complete text)

Mexico Extradites Record Number Of Fugitives To The United States In 2006
December 28, 2006 — Garza: "At year’s end, I am pleased to highlight the record number of 63 fugitives who have been returned to the United States by Mexico in 2006 to face criminal charges. This is the highest ever number of extraditions in a year from Mexico to the United States and demonstrates our countries’ common commitment to bringing criminals to justice."(complete text)

Congratulations to Incoming Mexico City Mayor Ebrard
December 5, 2006 — Garza: “I was honored today to attend the inauguration of Marcelo Ebrard as the Mayor of Mexico City, the Federal District. The day-to-day challenges of managing this great city are daunting, and I am particularly pleased to extend my congratulations and best wishes as Mayor Ebrard assumes office.”(complete text)

White House Announces U.S. Delegation to Attend Inauguration of President-Elect Calderon
November 28, 2006 — Garza: "To emphasize the breadth and great importance of our ties with Mexico, President Bush has chosen as his personal representatives to the inauguration of President-Elect Felipe Calderon on December 1, 2006, his father, former U.S. President George H.W. Bush, U.S. Attorney General Alberto Gonzales, and U.S. Secretary of Commerce Carlos Gutierrez. I too am deeply honored to have been asked to join this delegation."(complete text)

U.S. Embassy Extends Alert to U.S. Citizens to Avoid Travel to Oaxaca and to Remain Vigilant Throughout Mexico
November 15, 2006 – Garza: "The U.S. Embassy in Mexico and the U.S. Department of State today announced their decision to extend the current Public Announcement alerting U.S. citizens to the political violence and disorder in Oaxaca City, Mexico. They also decided to expand the Announcement to include security concerns throughout Mexico in light of recent bombings in Mexico City."(complete text)

Statement by Amb. Garza re Bush/Calderon meeting
November 9, 2006 – "I’ve attended and observed a number of these types of meetings and I must say that I was particularly struck by President-Elect Calderon’s and President Bush’s directness in discussing the mutual challenges we face."(complete text)

President-Elect Calderon and President Bush to Meet in Washington, D.C.
November 8, 2006 — Garza: "I know that President Bush looks forward to meeting with President-Elect Felipe Calderon when he visits the United States on November 8-9. For the almost twenty years that I have known him, President Bush has been a proponent of building on and strengthening our already close relationship with Mexico."(complete text)

Ambassador Garza Inaugurates New Consulate in Merida and Visits Environmental Projects in Playa del Carmen
November 6, 2006 — “This new consulate represents our continued commitment to the residents and Americans citizens in this beautiful region,” said Amb. Garza, who also traveled to Playa del Carmen to join the Governor of the State of Quintana Roo Lic. Félix A. González Canto and witness the signing of two Letters of Collaboration.(complete text)

U.S. Embassy Elevates Alert to U.S. Citizens To Avoid Travel to Oaxaca and Urges Full Commitment to Restoration of the Rule of Law
October 30, 2006 – Garza: "U.S. citizens should avoid any travel to Oaxaca City, and if they must travel there, they should exercise extreme caution throughout the state of Oaxaca until the government of Mexico restores order to the area."(complete text)

Ambassador Garza Inaugurates New Border Crossing Lane and
Attends Groundbreaking Ceremony for Water Treatment Plant in Nuevo Laredo
October 30, 2006 – Garza: “While this project will have the greatest impact on local communities, it also demonstrates that our two nations have the will and capacity to address the common concerns of our citizens.”(complete text)

Statement by Ambassador Garza Regarding the Death of Journalist Bradley Roland Will
October 27, 2006 – "This violence caused me to issue an advisory to American citizens on August 24, 2006, urging them to consider carefully the risk of travel to Oaxaca and to exercise great caution if they did choose to enter the region. That advisory was set to expire on October 30, 2006. However, this week, I chose to reissue it in light of the continuing escalation of violence in Oaxaca. The tragic shooting of an American citizen today only heightens my deep concern for the safety of Americans traveling there."(complete text)

U.S. Government Supports Small Business Incubation Program
October 27, 2006 – Garza: “Ninety percent of the new businesses in Mexico in the next decade will be established by micro and small enterprises, creating the majority of new jobs. Their growth strengthens trade between our two countries and sustainable economic development in Mexico.”(complete text)

President Bush Signs Secure Fence Act of 2006 in a Ceremony in Washington, D.C.
October 26, 2006 – Garza: “The leaders of every sovereign nation owe a duty to their citizens to make their nation as secure as possible. We know this is a duty that Mexicans will understand and respect.”(complete text)

Garza: Gone Are the Days that Fugitives Could Avoid Justice by Running Away to Mexico
October 24, 2006 – “This year alone, Mexico has extradited 50 fugitives who allegedly committed crimes in the United States and thought they would enjoy free and unfettered lives south of the border.”(complete text)

New Rules Requiring Americans to Have Valid Passports When Flying to and from Mexico Will Speed-Up Travel and Make Our Country Safer
October 24, 2006 – "Americans who travel to and from Mexico on an airplane will need to carry a valid U.S. passport under new rules that go into effect on January 8, 2007."(complete text)

Statement by Ambassador Antonio O. Garza on Recognition of the U.S. Government by the Fox Administration for Support of Good Government Agenda
October 20, 2006. – "The Good Government Agenda will be one of the enduring legacies of the Fox Administration. It has improved the internal operations of the federal government and the way it provides services to citizens," said Ambassador Garza(complete text)

Garza: Large-Scale Operations Against Drug Trafficking Organizations Are a Key Step Towards Giving the Mexican People the Security they Deserve
October 19 – "Yesterday, in one of the largest operations of its type ever executed in Mexican history, Mexican PGR and AFI agents targeted two major money laundering organizations.... Information and assistance from the United States was an important component of this dynamic operation."(complete text)

We Welcome Mexicans to Visit Our Country and Encourage Them To Apply Early for Their Visas
October 19, 2006 – Garza: "I urge visitors who need visas to apply as soon as possible for their appointments, especially for travel to the United States during the winter and spring holiday periods."(complete text)

President Bush and President-Elect Calderon to Meet in Washington, D.C.
October 19, 2006 – Garza: “The meeting will provide both leaders with the opportunity to strengthen our already vibrant bilateral relationship and to discuss ways of making both of our countries more secure and prosperous, given the many economic and security challenges we face together both in the region and in the world.”(complete text)

Department of State to Introduce Passport Card
Oct. 17, 2006 – The Department of State announced and submitted for public comment a federal rule proposing the development of a card-format passport for international travel by U.S. citizens through land and sea ports of entry between the United States, Canada, Mexico, the Caribbean, and Bermuda.(complete text)

Garza: “Health is a common concern and a shared responsibility. Through bilateral cooperation and active participation of the civil society in both our countries, we really can win the fight against infectious diseases.”
October 10, 2006 — Ambassador Garza Announces Over $1.2 million dollars in Grants to Fight HIV-AIDS and Tuberculosis in Mexico.(complete text)

Garza: “The presence of sixteen U.S. environmental firms at Enviro-Pro 2006, a conference held here in Mexico, is another sign of our fruitful bilateral commercial relationship. This event will help American companies find Mexican business partners, identify profitable opportunities through competitive technology, and most importantly, improve the environment for future generations.”
September 27, 2006 – U.S. and Mexican Companies Show Stewardship of our Shared Natural Resources: Sixteen American environmental firms have arrived in Mexico to host exhibits at the Enviro-Pro 2006 environmental show to be held September 27 through 29 at the Mexico City World Trade Center.(complete text)

Public Announcement regarding Oaxaca City Extended
September 24, 2006 – The U.S. Embassy in Mexico and Department of State today announced their decision to extend the current Public Announcement regarding demonstrations in Oaxaca City, to alert U.S. citizens to the ongoing and potentially violent situation there.(complete text)

Ambassador Garza Travels to Ciudad Juarez
September 22, 2006 – Ambassador Antonio O. Garza, Jr. visited Ciudad Juarez, meeting with Chihuahua Governor Reyes Baeza, to discuss border violence and crime and to inaugurate two bilateral projects.(complete text)

Remarks by Ambassador Garza at Opening of Forensic Laboratory
September 22, 2006   "The new forensic laboratory that we are inaugurating today is undoubtedly one of the most important achievements that the State has had in its work to increase its citizens’ trust in their justice system. This laboratory will help resolve criminal cases and bring dangerous criminals to justice. We all hope, as well, that this laboratory will help in the investigations of the hundreds of unsolved cases of murder of women in the Ciudad Juárez area in the past several years."(complete text)

Meeting between U.S. and Mexican Officials in Laredo
Sept. 21, 2006 – Ending the culture of impunity in which criminals currently act along our border will be a strong sign to both cartels and beleaguered law enforcement agencies that all involved mean business.(complete text)

Tony Garza: Extradition of Druglord Rafael Arellano Felix to the U.S. is Significant in Continuing Battle Against Drugs and Violence
September 17, 2006 – "...I also want to be the first to recognize that the Fox administration has been aggressive about extraditions and committed to doing what they can, when they can. President Fox has been unwavering in that regard and I recognize and appreciate both his conviction and courage, and that of his entire team."(complete text)

U.S. Ambassador Issues Advisory Message To Americans Regarding Increased Violence In Mexico
September 14, 2006 – Antonio O. Garza: “The bottom line is that we simply cannot allow drug traffickers to place in jeopardy the lives of our citizens and the safety of our communities.”(complete text)

New Procedures will Speed up the Visa Application Process
September 14, 2006 – Garza: “The process of applying for a visa to travel to the United States will soon be faster and easier for Mexicans. We are speeding up procedures for visa applicants through a user-friendly system with forms on the Internet.”(complete text)

The United States and Mexico Commemorate the Fifth Anniversary of the September 11th Terrorist Attacks in a Ceremony at the U.S. Embassy
September 11, 2006 - "Mexican nationals were among the thousands of victims killed on September 11, 2001. Let us honor the memory of all who died by pledging to do whatever is necessary to prevent a reoccurrence of this terrorist outrage in any country," said Amb. Garza(complete text)

Mexican and U.S. Law Enforcement Cooperate in Apprehension of Major Drug Kingpin
September 8, 2006 – “The apprehension in Mexico and expulsion to the United States of Norte-Valle Drug Cartel Kingpin Jaime Maya-Duran shows the determination of U.S. and Mexican law enforcement authorities to pursue the most dangerous criminals, including those who thought they were untouchable,” said Ambassador Antonio O. Garza, Jr.(complete text)

The United States Congratulates the Federal Electoral Tribunal and the People of Mexico on the Announcement of New President-Elect
September 5, 2006 - Garza: "Today, the Electoral Tribunal of Mexico announced that Felipe Calderón will be the next President of Mexico. In so doing, the Tribunal reaffirmed the credibility of Mexico’s electoral institutions by reviewing the July 2 Presidential Election and determining that the people had spoken in a free and fair way. I congratulate President-elect Calderón and look forward to working with his administration in the years to come."(complete text)

U.S. Government Supports Small-Scale Mexican Farmers
August 24, 2006 - “Small-scale agricultural producers need assistance to stay competitive in changing markets dominated by supermarkets. Improved access to credit, market information, and new technologies will help these farmers stay in business,” said U.S. Ambassador to Mexico Antonio O. Garza, Jr.(complete text)

U.S. Authorities Return Stolen Art to Mexico
August 23, 2006 – Garza: “All Countries Have an Obligation to Work Together to Protect their Cultural Patrimony from the Illicit Trade in Art and Antiquities so that Future Generations can Appreciate their Heritage”(complete text)

Ambassador Garza to Visit Guadalajara August 18–19
August 18, 2006 – U.S. Ambassador to Mexico Antonio O. Garza is traveling to Guadalajara and will visit several important institutions, including the University of Guadalajara and its new Center for North American studies, the Hospital Civil, and the Instituto Cultural de Jalisco. The Ambassador also will talk about the growing and dangerous trade in illegal methamphetamines and will speak at a private luncheon at the American Chamber of Commerce.(complete text)

Major Break in the Investigation into the Unsolved Murders of Women in Ciudad Juarez
August 17, 2003 - “Last Tuesday, the U.S. Marshals Service and the Department of Homeland Security-Immigration and Customs Enforcement in Denver, Colorado, arrested Edgar Alvarez Cruz for violating U.S. immigration law. Alvarez Cruz is believed to be part of a gang of men who raped and murdered no less than 10 women in Ciudad Juarez, Mexico between 1993 and 2003.(complete text)

U.S. Authorities Arrest Drug Kingpin Francisco Javier Arellano Felix
August 16, 2006 - “Americans and Mexicans are safer thanks to quick action by U.S. law enforcement authorities, who on Monday, August 14 located and captured Javier Francisco Arellano Felix, a leader of the drug trafficking gang that bears his name. A U.S. Coast Guard vessel captured Arellano Felix while he was deep-sea fishing in international waters off the coast of Baja California,” said Ambassador Garza.(complete text)

Ambassador Garza: “The Mexican government is an ally and friend when it comes to our global effort against narco-violence, trafficking in persons, and terrorism.”
August 14, 2006 - Ambassador Garza visited the El Paso-Ciudad Juarez border region today. In El Paso, the Ambassador attended the Third Annual Border Security Conference at the University of Texas at El Paso. Conference participants examined current efforts by the public and private sectors of the U.S. and Mexico to safeguard the border and its economy.(complete text)

Ambassador Garza: “When countries share experiences and knowledge, we not only gain technical expertise to solve today’s problems, but forge lasting cross-border relationships for the future.”
August 10, 2006. – U.S. Ambassador Antonio O. Garza, Jr. visited Morelia today to celebrate the first anniversary of the Public Finance Speakers’ Series and the 50th anniversary of the Mexican-American Cultural Institute of Michoacan.(complete text)

Ambassador Garza Meets with Mexican Customs Official and Canine Counterpart
August 4, 2006 - “This partnership between a human being and his canine partner is an example of innovative cooperation between the United States and Mexico in the fight against crime and terrorism,” said Ambassador Garza.(complete text)

Ambassador Garza Lauds the Launch of the Hidalgo Financial Institute
August 1, 2006 - “I would like to congratulate the state of Hidalgo for creating and implementing the Hidalgo Financial Institute,” said U.S. Ambassador to Mexico Tony Garza in a ceremony to announce the launching of a new revolving fund in the state of Hidalgo.(complete text)

Ambassador Garza Announces Ten New University Partnerships Between the United States and Mexico
July 18, 2006 - “These partnerships will help strengthen trade and sustainable economic development in Mexico; improve the quality of life in indigenous communities; create new cadres of trained professionals; and enhance cross-border relationships".(complete text)

U.S. Treasury Identifies Money Laundering Cell of the Arellano Felix Organization
Washington, D.C., July 12, 2006 - The U.S. Department of the Treasury's Office of Foreign Assets Control (OFAC) identified 34 companies and individuals associated with two Mexican drug cartels, the Arellano Felix Organization and the Arriola Marquez Organization, pursuant to the Foreign Narcotics Kingpin Designation Act (Kingpin Act).(complete text)

Ambassador Garza Congratulates the Mexican People and Felipe Calderón
July 7, 2006 - “I would like to extend my congratulations to Felipe Calderón in the wake of IFE’s declaration yesterday that he garnered the most votes in Sunday’s presidential election.(complete text)

Garza: "The unprecedented simultaneous extradition of five violent criminals – including one from the FBI's Ten Most Wanted Fugitive List – is a landmark in cooperation between U.S. and Mexican law enforcement agencies.”
July 7, 2006 - “Today Mexican authorities extradited five criminals to the United States to face charges. Four of the fugitives now in custody brutally took the lives of innocent people, including a four-year old child who was tortured, then murdered. I am confident that justice will now be served; we are grateful to Mexican law enforcement officials for their investigative persistence and swift action,” said Ambassador Garza.(complete text)

Garza: “Education is the foundation for lasting development and growth. By providing scholarships to young people and teachers in indigenous communities, the United States hopes to contribute both to the future economic development of Mexico and to mutual understanding between our two countries.”
July 6, 2006 - Ambassador Garza Announces Scholarships for 53 Indigenous Teachers and Students.(complete text)

Remarks by Amb. Garza at the Independence Day Celebration
July 4, 2006 - "As we celebrate our two strong democracies today, let us also remember those around the world who do not benefit from the freedoms we witnessed here on Sunday and that we exercise everyday in the United States and Mexico."(complete text)

Statement by Amb. Garza re the 11:00 p.m. announcement by IFE
July 2, 2006 - “I am convinced Mexicans will wait patiently and prudently as the Federal Electoral Institute reviews today’s voting records. I know that that the Federal Electoral Institute’s procedures will be thorough and transparent, and will result in a victory -- not only for a democratically-elected President -- but for all Mexicans."(complete text)

U.S. Fugitive Believed to Have Shot Nevada Judge Arrested in Mexico
June 23, 2006 - “The arrest of Darren Roy Mack demonstrates that U.S-Mexico law enforcement authorities work well together and are successfully tracking down fugitives from justice,” said Ambassador Garza.(complete text)

Ambassador Garza Visits Monterrey and Matamoros
June 22, 2006 - This morning at Banorte headquarters in Monterrey, U.S. Ambassador Tony Garza and Banorte Director General Luis Peña Kegel, signed a cooperative agreement to expand access to financial services for members of Pronegocio, a Banorte subsidiary. The U.S. Embassy, through its Agency for International Development, provides technical assistance to Pronegocio.(complete text)

Recent Extradition And Arrest Of Two “Top-Ten” Fugitives Proves Importance Of U.S.-Mexico Law Enforcement Cooperation
Garza: “Working together, Mexican and U.S. law enforcement authorities this week are bringing to justice two criminals who have appeared on U.S. ‘Ten Most Wanted’ lists.... This successful cooperation between our two governments again demonstrates how together we will work relentlessly to hold fugitives accountable for their crimes.”(complete text)

The United States and Mexico Cooperate to Rescue a Baby from Her Mother’s Alleged Killer
June 19, 2006 - “The infant daughter of a murder victim has been recovered safely, thanks to cooperation between U.S. and Mexican law enforcement officers,” announced Ambassador Antonio O. Garza.(complete text)

Hewlett-Packard of Mexico and the Mexican firm Patronato Pro Zona Mazahua receive the Partnership for Prosperity Good Partner Award From the United States and Mexico
June 15, 2006 – “Partnerships between socially responsible businesses and the public sector are the key to prosperity. By giving the Award... we are acknowledging the positive role companies on both sides of the border are playing by investing in Mexico’s future and in Mexico’s most important resource, its people,” said U.S. Ambassador Antonio O. Garza.(complete text)

New Web Page For Requesting Urgent Visa Appointments at the U.S. Embassy
June 15, 2006 – The Non-Immigrant Visa Section of the U.S. Embassy in Mexico City has implemented a web-based service for requesting urgent visa appointments. Emergencies include an unplanned and immediate urgent need to travel, such as a medical emergency, hospitalization, funeral, professional training, presentation in a conference, or the start of academic studies. Personal travel for pleasure to the U.S. fails to meet the emergency appointment criteria.(complete text)

Ambassador Garza meets Mexico’s 2006 Youth Science Leadership Institute Finalists
June 13, 2006 – Ambassador Garza met with the four teenagers who will represent Mexico as delegates to the 2006 Youth Science Leadership Institute, where they will take part in an intensive program designed to give a select group of young people skills that will enable them to become tomorrow’s leaders and decision makers.(complete text)

Ambassador Garza says continued U.S.-Mexico Cooperation Is Key to Reducing the Trade in Illegal Drugs
June 12, 2006 - "One of the great success stories of the U.S.-Mexican bilateral relationship has been the increasingly strong cooperation between our law enforcement agencies. That cooperation has helped us to combat crime, not just in the border region, but throughout our two countries… And let’s be honest… much of the credit for this success should go to an extraordinary leader who is not here with us today… and that is President Vicente Fox": Ambassador Garza.(complete text)

Five Million U.S. Dollar Reward Offered for Information Leading to the Capture of Presumed Gulf Coast Drug Cartel Leader Jorge Eduardo Costilla Sanchez
June 8, 2006 - “In addition to being an extremely dangerous criminal, Jorge Eduardo Costilla Sanchez is the linchpin of a network of drug dealers and murderers. Residents of our border communities will be significantly safer if he is apprehended and bought to justice. We will offer a reward of up to $5 million (U.S.) dollars for information leading to his arrest or conviction,” announced Ambassador Antonio O. Garza.(complete text)

Ambassador Garza Honors Mexican Law Enforcement Officials at the U.S Embassy
June 1, 2006 – At a ceremony held at the U.S. Embassy in Mexico City, Ambassador Antonio O. Garza, Jr. applauded the joint efforts of Mexican and U.S. law enforcement officials to fight crime in both the United States and Mexico. “It is only by sharing information and resources, and coordinating our efforts, that the U.S. and Mexican governments can curb the tide of violence and crime that is wreaking havoc in our communities,” said Ambassador Garza.(complete text)

The ‘Mexico: Gateway to the Americas’ Performing Arts Program will promote cultural exchange and dialogue for performers worldwide
May 30, 2006 - Formally entitled the Third Performing Arts Encounter, “Mexico: Gateway to the Americas” will feature a colloquium for arts professionals on grant writing and fund raising, and an exchange of ideas about how to better promote performances internationally. "This important gathering of arts professionals will help talented artists realize their dreams,” said Ambassador Garza.(complete text)

Ambassador Garza Commemorates America’s Fallen on Memorial Day
May 29, 2006 - Speaking at the annual Memorial Day ceremony held today at the Mexico City National Cemetery, Ambassador Garza urged Americans to remember those who gave their lives in the service of their country.(complete text)

Statement by Ambassador Garza
May 25, 2006 – “Today’s Senate vote is a critical step toward the President’s vision—one which will benefit the people of both countries. While the Senate vote is critical, the process of reforming our immigration laws is far from complete. The Senate now will enter into discussion and coordination on this bill with the House of Representatives.”(complete text)

On behalf of the American People, Ambassador Garza Announces U.S. $163,000 to Support the Monarch Butterfly Sanctuary
May 22, 2006 – Garza: “The Monarch Butterfly is a Fragile World Treasure. Its Survival Depends on American, Mexican, and Canadian Cooperation.”(complete text)

Statement by U.S. Ambassador Antonio O. Garza: U.S. President to Discuss Immigration Reform at 7:00 P.M. Central Time
May 15, 2006 – Garza: "President Bush will deliver a major address to the American people tonight about the need to reform U.S. immigration law, to secure our common border, and to create a program that matches immigrants who want to work legally in the United States with the employers who need them. The President’s speech has important and positive implications for U.S.-Mexico relations."(complete text)

The United States and Mexico Cooperate to Prevent Criminals from Selling a Baby
May 11, 2006 – Garza: “While law enforcement agencies on both sides of the border deserve recognition for preventing an infant from being sold and smuggled, Univision reporters should also be credited for preventing a serious crime from taking place. The arrests of Hidalgo-Rivera and Hernandez demonstrate the importance of cross-border cooperation, and provide one more example of why democratic government depends on the press to investigate and report.”(complete text)

Mr. and Mrs. Victor M. Carrera of McAllen, Texas, give the Mexican people a Hand-Written Letter from former President Benito Juarez
May 8, 2006. – “At a ceremony held in Chapultepec Castle today, Mr. and Mrs. Victor Carrera donated a letter that former Mexican President Benito Juarez wrote to his wife in 1865,” said Ambassador Antonio O. Garza, Jr., who was pleased to facilitate the gift of this important document.(complete text)

Mexico Destroys Record Amounts of Marijuana and Opium Poppy
May 3, 2006 – Garza: “Mexico’s military and law enforcement community deserve recognition for the role its brave members have played in identifying and destroying opium poppy and marijuana fields. These eradication efforts are one more example of our ever-increasing effort to fight the war on drugs effectively and in cooperation with one another.”(complete text)

United States Gives Grants Totaling US $1.5 Million to Mexican Savings Banks and Farm Finance Organizations, to Promote Financial Literacy and Help Rural Communities
April 28, 2006 – Garza: “The grants we are issuing today to Mexican banks and farm finance institutions are important steps towards our goal of bringing the benefits of the marketplace to small and mid-size farmers, businessmen, and entrepreneurs.”(complete text)

United States Will Donate US $1.3 Million to Improve Multimodal Transportation and Strengthen Mexico’s Economy
April 27, 2006 – Garza: “Speeding up car and truck travel will benefit all three NAFTA countries. The United States is making a sound investment by providing the funds and technical assistance Mexico needs to take an important country-wide transportation plan off the drawing board and make it a reality.”(complete text)

U.S. Government Helps Promote the Exchange of Ideas Among State Treasurers
April 27, 2006 – Ambassador Garza: “Shared prosperity is the promise NAFTA holds for the people of North America, and close cooperation between state government treasurers in the United States, Mexico, and Canada is one important step towards achieving that goal.”(complete text)

Ambassador Garza Presents Johnson Controls with Award for Excellence
April 25, 2006. – Ambassador Garza awarded the U.S. company Johnson Controls the U.S. Secretary of State’s Award for Corporate Excellence in recognition of their excellent business practices and good corporate citizenship.(complete text)

U.S. Senate Moving Closer to Immigration Reform Bill
April 6, 2006 – “While the process is a long one, ultimately our government is going to act in the best interest of the American people and consistently with the desire of Americans that our country be both a secure and a welcoming one. I am sure that in the coming weeks we will continue to see spirited, and at times heated, debate within our country on this significant issue.”(complete text)

Alleged Cop-Killer, Michael Paul Astorga, Captured in Mexico
April 3, 2006 - Garza: "We extend our appreciation to Mexico’s state and federal law enforcement authorities, who used information provided by their American counterparts to apprehend this vicious fugitive. Once again, the efficient exchange of information among our law enforcement officials has resulted in the rapid apprehension of a fugitive, and demonstrated that our border cannot be used to flee justice."(complete text)

U.S. Trade Official To Meet with Mexican, Canadian Counterparts
NAFTA partners seek to build on trade pact's success, says Portman.
U.S. Trade Representative (USTR) Rob Portman will visit Mexico on March 23 to participate in an annual meeting on the North American Free Trade Agreement (NAFTA).(complete text)

The World Water Forum is an Opportunity to Create Partnerships to Better Manage Our Water Resources
March 21, 2006 – Garza: “The U.S.-Mexico Watergy program demonstrates our commitment to share the benefits of water conservation technology. This important initiative will permit the city of Matamoros and other municipalities in the state of Tamaulipas to conserve water using the latest technology.”(complete text)

Statement by the Ambassador Regarding the Assassination in Nuevo Laredo of Four Agents of the Mexican Federal Preventive Police
March 17, 2006 - Garza: "I express my sincere condolences to their families, along with our strongest solidarity with their colleagues and all those who are working on the front lines to combat violence along our border.... The United States is committed to close collaboration with the Government of Mexico in tracking down and bringing to justice the criminals who coldly assassinated these four brave men, along with others who terrorize our citizens."(complete text)

Garza: “Access to clean water and adequate sanitation along with sound water management are key components to addressing poverty and disease.”
March 15, 2006 - U.S. Delegation Attends the 4th World Water Forum “I am pleased to welcome the U.S. Delegation to the World Water Forum in Mexico City. Twenty-six official delegates representing nine government agencies are here to share information, offer technical assistance and collaborate with some of the world’s experts on water issues. Under Secretary of State for Democracy and Global Affairs Paula Dobriansky heads our delegation, which also includes nearly 50 U.S. government technical experts,” said U.S. Ambassador Tony Garza.(complete text)

Garza: “The collaboration between our governments is ongoing in the area of infectious diseases”
March 7, 2003 - The United States Will Award $US1 Million to Border Communities In Baja California, Chihuahua, Nuevo Leon, and Sonora. “We are proud to collaborate with the people of Mexico to advance our shared goal of developing new and innovative strategies to fight the diseases which threaten our communities,” said Amb. Garza.(complete text)

United States and Mexico Announce Joint Action Plan to Combat Violence on Both Sides of the Border
March 3, 2006 - Ambassador Garza: “The Action Plan signed today by Department of Homeland Security Secretary Michael Chertoff and his Mexican counterpart, Secretary of the Interior Carlos Abascal, is a crucial turning point in our plan to protect our border communities from criminals and traffickers, while ensuring that trade and wealth creation in this vital region can continue to thrive.”(complete text)

Ambassador Garza Expresses his Condolences to the Families of the Victims of the Terrorist Attack in Karachi, Pakistan
March 2, 2006 — "On behalf of the U.S. Mission in Mexico, I extend my deepest condolences to the families of Mr. Foy, Mr. Ahmed, and to the relatives of the other victims of this horrible and cowardly act. Today we are flying the flag of the U.S. Embassy in Mexico City at half-mast to mourn the loss of a fellow diplomat."(complete text)

Ambassador Garza Praises Joint Efforts of the United States and Mexico in the Arrest of “Most-Wanted” Murder Suspect
February 27, 2006 - Garza: “Thanks to the close cooperation of the Agencia Federal de Investigacion (AFI), the State of Baja California Judicial Police’s Anti-Kidnapping Unit, and the United States’ FBI, a dangerous fugitive was arrested. The United States, and especially the people of Tennessee, are very grateful for the efforts of these law enforcement officers.”(complete text)

Ambassador Garza Praises Investigative Persistence and Close Cooperation between U.S. and Mexico
February 24, 2006 - “We have received preliminary reports that agents of the Mexican Federal Investigation Agency arrested U.S. fugitive JORGE ARROYO GARCIA (aka Armando Arroyo) today in Tonalá, in Mexico’s state of Jalisco,” said U.S. Ambassador Antonio O. Garza, Jr.(complete text)

U.S. Government Supports Energy Workshop for Rural Electrification
February 22, 2006 - Garza:“The demand for electrical power is rising dramatically throughout the globe and making energy cheap, clean, and available will be a major challenge. Mexico’s energy future will include alternative power, to be generated in the countryside. Our support for a workshop on renewable energy is an investment in Mexico’s future.”(complete text)

Mexico Honors Its 'Coming Up Taller' Award Winners and Sponsors
February 22, 2006 - The United States-Mexico Cultural Foundation honors the Margarita Septien Recreation Center of Colima and The Art and Children’s Project of Veracruz, which received "Coming Up Taller" awards from First Lady Laura Bush, as well as Coca-Cola of Mexico and the Televisa Foundation, who supported and sponsored the honorees.(complete text)

Student Visas: Secure Borders and Open Doors in the Information Age
February 16, 2006 - The Department of State is pleased to announce we have extended the length of time foreign students may be issued student visas. This is one of the elements of the recently announced Rice-Chertoff Joint Vision that will enhance border security while streamlining security processes and facilitating travel for visitors to the United States.(complete text)

U.S. Government Supports Water and Tourism Conference in Cancun
February 15, 2006 - Garza: “Mexico is blessed with an unrivaled natural beauty; just ask any Mexican or American tourist who has been to the Mayan Riviera. Mexicans can pass on this gift to future generations only by intelligently managing their precious water resources.”(complete text)

United States Sends Condolences to the Victims of the Attack on the Offices of El Mañana in Nuevo Laredo
February 9, 2006 - “We extend our heartfelt sympathies to the victims of this attack, and hope they recover from their grave injuries rapidly, said Ambassador Antonio O. Garza.(complete text)

Ambassador Garza highlights President Bush's statements on Immigration and Border Security in the State of the Union Address
January 31, 2006 - "As recent weeks have demonstrated, border security and immigration are two of the most complicated and difficult issues in the great diversity of questions that arise in the bilateral relationship between Mexico and the United States. Today, in President Bush’s annual State of the Union address, the President spoke directly about issues that affect Mexico and gave his thoughts on ways to improve the lives of people in both our countries."(complete text)

President and Mrs. Bush Saddened by Death of Coretta Scott King
January 31, 2006 - "Laura and I were fortunate to have known Mrs. King, and we will always treasure the time we spent with her. We send our condolences and prayers to the entire King family."(complete text)

Statement by Ambassador Antonio O. Garza Jr. Upon Delivery of Diplomatic Note Regarding Rising Border Violence and Attacks on U.S. Border Patrol Agents
January 27, 2006 – "Today, I simply reiterated my request that the Government of Mexico undertake additional measures to prevent cross-border violence and to provide our government with any investigative results they may have related to the violence."(complete text)

Statement by Ambassador Antonio O. Garza Jr. Upon Delivery of Diplomatic Note Regarding January 23 Border Incursion
January 25, 2006 – "I sent the Diplomatic Note because this type of incident is indicative of the danger faced by our law enforcement officers daily along the border.... I am hopeful that we can face this current challenge with resolve and focus, and I have offered any and all additional cooperation that the U.S. Government can provide."(complete text)

United States and Mexico Reach Agreement on Cement Trade, Resolving a 16-Year Dispute
January 19, 2006 – Garza: “Leadership matters. Thanks to the commitment of the Mexican Secretary of the Economy Sergio Garcia de Alba and U.S. Commerce Secretary Carlos M. Gutierrez a nearly two decades old issue has been resolved. The United States and Mexico agreed today to liberalize trade in cement between our two countries. Now consumers on both sides of the border will be able to buy more affordable cement and both economies will benefit.”(complete text)

Leading Mexican Cultural Personalities to Attend the Association of Performing Arts Presenters Conference in New York City on January 21 – 24, 2006
Ambassador Garza: “Culture is the key to greater understanding between Americans and Mexicans. Through their participation in the Association of Arts Presenters Conference, leading cultural figures from both countries will share the techniques and ideas that will ultimately enable us to produce more meaningful and stimulating performances and works of art.”(complete text)

United States To Use Better Technology for Security, Hospitality
Jan. 17, 2006 - Secretary of State Condoleezza Rice and Homeland Security Secretary Michael Chertoff presented a broad strategy for ensuring security at the nation’s borders and at the same time welcoming travelers, students and businesspeople into the United States.(complete text)

Justice for Crime Victims: Mexican Officials Attend U.S. Study Tour
January 11, 2006 - Ambassador Garza: “Justice for crime victims is more than punishing criminals. It requires that we commit ourselves to addressing the needs of the victims. By discussing our experiences and judicial systems, American and Mexican legal officials will find ways of making justice more accessible and equitable.”(complete text)