Press Releases 08
Designation of Consulates General in Matamoros, Nuevo Laredo
and Hermosillo
Statement by Ambassador Antonio O. Garza
Mexico City, May 22, 2008 - “Today I’m announcing that the
U.S. Consulates in the Mexican cities of Matamoros, Nuevo
Laredo and Hermosillo are being designated as full Consulates
General. I feel strongly that this change is necessary and
long overdue. This designation will allow these Consulates
General to better serve American citizens residing in or visiting
those areas for pleasure and business, as well as Mexicans
requiring assistance with visas or commercial matters.
“Today’s decision merely confirms what I have long known
- with a billion dollars in trade and well over a million
people crossing the border every day, the partnership we have
with Mexico is like no other in the world.
“I am especially proud of the efforts we are making along
the border. In addition to today’s decision, we are currently
starting construction in Tijuana to house our Consulate General
and soon in Ciudad Juarez we will finish construction on the
largest U.S. Consulate in the world.
“Mexico and the United States are linked by culture, family
ties, tourism and trade. Not only are we neighbors, but good
friends. And in confronting our many day to day challenges,
we diligently work together in the knowledge that our constant
efforts will benefit the people in both our nations. At this
critical time, as narco-violence surges in response to the
Calderon administration’s successful efforts to root out criminal
networks, it is particularly important that we focus our efforts
to assist our Mexican partners and protect our citizens along
the border.
“As we further strengthen our relationship, we look forward
to working jointly in the broadening of our understanding,
opportunities for business, and cultural exchange, for the
well-being of the peoples of Mexico and the United States.”
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