Press Releases 08
Merida Initiative Continues to Move Forward
Statement by Ambassador Antonio O. Garza
Mexico City, May 22, 2008 - “Today the U.S. Senate passed
a supplemental budget bill that includes funding of the Merida
Initiative. This is another step forward for this important
program to strengthen cooperation between the United States
and Mexico to fight the drug trade and organized crime that
impact both our nations. However, it is still not final action.
“It is important to point out that, due to differences in
the versions of the bill passed by the House and the Senate,
we expect the legislative process to continue over the next
several weeks before a finalized bill is sent to the President.
During this process, the contents of the bill could change
significantly.
“The inclusion of funding of the Merida Initiative in both
the House and Senate’s bills signals Congressional support
for this important measure to enhance ongoing U.S. programs
for cooperating and coordinating with the Mexican government.
President Bush’s support for the initiative has been unwavering.
He strongly believes we must support our neighbor in the fight
against organized criminal organizations that threaten citizens
in both our countries.
“The version of the bill approved today by the Senate differs
significantly from the version passed by the House last week,
particularly as it relates to domestic spending and funding
of the wars in Iraq and Afghanistan. Due to these disparities,
the House must now either vote on the Senate’s bill, or a
conference committee must convene to work out new language.
“Once both legislative chambers have agreed upon a bill,
it will be presented to the President for approval. I am confident
that the Merida Initiative will be enacted in due course,
enabling Mexico and the U.S. to build upon our already successful
security cooperation and share in the fight against narcotrafficking.
I again urge U.S. legislators to pass this important program.”
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