U.S., Mexico Sign Bilateral Agreement

Napolitano, Carstens agree to strengthen security, facilitate trade

 

U.S. Department of Homeland Security Secretary Janet Napolitano and Mexican Minister of Finance and Public Credit Agustín Carstens on June 15 signed a letter of intent aimed at strengthening bilateral cooperation between the United States and Mexico. The agreement seeks to increase security in both countries and facilitate the flow of legal travel and trade.

 

“This agreement strengthens the partnership between the United States and Mexico to bolster our shared security,” said Secretary Napolitano. “Through coordinated enforcement and improved communication, we can work together to combat violence along the border while supporting tourism and trade.”

 

“This is another important step for the longstanding relationship and collaboration between our customs agencies,” Minister Carstens said. “The more we work together, the better the service and security we provide to our peoples and economies.”

 

The agreement provides a roadmap for bilateral initiatives. Specifically, it seeks to strengthen border enforcement by creating a framework for establishing bilateral port security management committees, developing a joint implementation plan for cooperative capacity building, and increasing trade facilitation between the two nations through increased information sharing and a harmonized customs clearance process.

 

The letter of intent expresses a mutual desire to continue to expand their relationship. In June 2007, DHS and the ministry signed a declaration of principles to strengthen bilateral cooperation and promote further engagement, including a bilateral strategic plan between U.S. Customs and Border Protection, U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement, and Mexico Customs.

(Source:Journal of Commerce)