Gov. Doug Ducey’s work in Mexico strengthens cross-border ties, earns plaudits from business leaders

Gov. Doug Ducey figured prominently in meetings with the incoming Mexican administration over the last several days, building on his binational reputation as one of the U.S.’ most internationally engaged governors.

After a productive joint conference of the Arizona-Mexico Commission and its Sonoran counterpart in Hermosillo, Sonora, the governor and Arizona-Mexico Commission leaders headed to Mexico City for the inauguration of new Mexican President Andrés Manuel López Obrador.

Gov. Ducey attended the inauguration ceremonies on Saturday and participated in a number of high-level meetings with new administration officials who were eager to visit with the governor and solidify Mexico’s ties with Arizona.

Prior to the inauguration, the governor talked with Vice President Mike Pence, Secretary of Defense Kirstjen Nielsen, Secretary of Energy Rick Perry and White House adviser Ivanka Trump.

“It’s always great to be in Mexico, solidifying our relationship as trading partners, neighbors and friends for years to come,” Gov. Ducey said. “From increased security at our ports of entry, to unique educational opportunities for our citizens, and more efficient flow of goods between our states and countries, we have so much groundbreaking work to build upon, and this trip was an opportunity to continue those efforts.”

Ducey was greeted in Mexico City by the incoming Mexico Ambassador to the United States Martha Bárcena and the deputy foreign minister to North America, Jesus Seade, to discuss how to continue to build upon the strong bond Arizona and Mexico hold. The governor was also able to meet with the president and CEO of the US-Mexico Chamber of Commerce, Albert Zapanta, to discuss the best practices for creating strong economic ties between the two countries.

Topics discussed throughout the governor’s visit also included border security, transportation, and trade.

“The Governor’s trip to Mexico City was another affirmation of the importance of Mexico to Arizona and our economy. Governor Ducey remains committed to promoting Arizona as a principal gateway for trade, investment and tourism, combined with our strong relationships with Mexico makes us an ideal location for companies interested in the North American market,” Juan Ciscomani, senior adviser for regional and interntional affairs for the Office of the Governor, said.  “We congratulate Mexico on a successful transition of government and look forward to working with the new administration for the betterment of Arizonans and the region.”

Members of the Arizona delegation were impressed with the reception the governor received.

“Gov. Ducey showed once again his commitment to strengthening our relationship with Mexico,” Arizona Chamber of Commerce and Industry President and CEO Glenn Hamer, who was part of the delegation, said. “The manner in which Gov. Ducey was received was astonishing. Gov. Ducey’s reputation as a bridgebuilder is well known in Mexico, and it was on full display throughout the entire visit. I can’t overstate just how important it was for the governor to be there and to make contact with so many prominent officials in the new administration.”

Jessica Pacheco, president of the Arizona-Mexico Commission, echoed the impressive work the governor has done in strengthening the relationship with Mexico.

“I think the governor has a deep understanding of what makes Arizona prosper,” she said. “What makes Arizona prosperous is a thriving economy. Our trade relationship with Mexico is integral in making our economy not only a healthy one, but one that can compete globally. We are dealing with a global stage and Governor Ducey’s leadership with our relationship with Mexico– understanding the importance our economic, social, and cultural ties– has really been a national best practice model.”

Lorna Romero

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