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Mexico City, Mexico, October 11, 2005 — “Managing forest and water resources will be a key factor in Mexico’s economic expansion. The United States is working closely with our Mexican partners, so that future generations of Mexicans will enjoy their country’s rich abundance and natural beauty. Recognizing the vital importance of forestry and water resources for Mexico’s future growth, the United States has donated more than “US$ 68 million” since 1996, to fight fires and support Mexico’s environment,” stated U.S. Ambassador to Mexico Tony Garza.
Speaking at a ceremony held today at the La Malinche National Park near Tlaxcala, attended by Secretary of the Environment and Natural Resources Jose Luis Luege, Ambassador Garza marked the donation of fire-fighting equipment, valued at “US$ 550,000,” from the United States to Mexico, noting “this donation of equipment will protect fire fighters who risk their lives for our safety and in so doing not only protect us, but help maintain Mexico’s vital forest resources.”
United States and Mexican officials also signed a Memorandum of Understanding detailing future environmental cooperation during today’s ceremony, in the presence of Tlaxcala Governor Hector Israel Ortiz, Puebla Governor Mario Marin Torres, and high-ranking officials from the Untied States and Mexico.
The United States has worked closely with Mexico on technical assistance programs and training related to the sustainable harvesting of wood, forestry management, fire control, and road construction. The Memorandum of Understanding signed today details how our two countries will promote forest-product community enterprises, and better protect our forests and watersheds.
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