FOREIGN SECRETARY MEADE MEETS WITH MAYOR GREG STANTON OF PHOENIX, ARIZONA

Foreign Secretary José Antonio Meade met today with the mayor of Phoenix, Arizona, Greg Stanton (D), who is leading a trade mission to Mexico.

The Foreign Secretary welcomed the mayor's commitment to strengthening the economic relationship with Mexico and emphasized the mutual benefits that would result from a more favorable political environment in Arizona. They agreed to continue cooperating to increase trade, investment, tourism, and cultural and educational exchanges. They also agreed on the need to convey a realistic and positive image of the border, and on getting all levels of government to work together for modern and efficient infrastructure. The Mexican market is the main international destination for Arizona products.

The Foreign Secretary also applauded the mayor’s support for the Mexican community and immigration reform that recognizes the contributions of immigrants to the economy and society in which they live. He stressed that the Mexican government’s interest in the ongoing debate in the U.S. stems from its commitment to the welfare of its citizens, inside and outside of Mexico.

Mayor Stanton was accompanied by the U.S. Ambassador to Mexico, Ambassador Earl Anthony Wayne, and officials from the city of Phoenix. Foreign Secretary Meade was accompanied by the Director of the Institute for Mexicans Abroad, Dr. Arnulfo Valdivia Machuca, and the Director General for the Protection of Mexicans Abroad, Reyna Torres Mendivil.