    [Public Papers of the Presidents of the United States: William J. Clinton (1995, Book II)]
    [October 10, 1995]
    [Pages 1556-1557]
    [From the U.S. Government Publishing Office www.gpo.gov]

    Remarks Welcoming President Ernesto Zedillo of Mexico
    October 10, 1995

        President and Mrs. Zedillo, members of the Mexican delegation,
    distinguished guests. On behalf of the American people, it is my honor
    to welcome you to the United States as our neighbors, our partners, and
    our friends.
        I know I speak for all Americans when I send my condolences to the
    victims of yesterday's terrible earthquake in western Mexico and to
    their families. Our thoughts and prayers are with all the people of your
    nation as the relief effort gets underway.
        Mr. President, the bonds between our nations have never been
    stronger or more important. Over the last decade, and with renewed
    vitality since you took office, Mexico has embarked upon a course of
    political and economic transformation. Openness and participation are
    the watchwords of the future as the people of your

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    great nation take control of shaping their destiny.
        Mexico's triumph in this epic endeavor will be America's triumph as
    well. A prosperous Mexico will be an even greater partner in trade, and
    this means more high-paying jobs for citizens in both our nations. A
    strong, democratic Mexico will be an even more effective partner in the
    struggle against drugs and crime and pollution.
        President Zedillo, the American people are proud to support your
    efforts. We know we share a stake in your success. That is why, when
    Mexico fell into financial crisis, the United States answered with
    action, not only for the sake of the Mexican people but also for the
    sake of thousands of Americans whose jobs depend upon Mexico's well-
    being.
        We saw the threat of economic dislocation all along our 2,000-mile
    border, and we recognized that trouble next door would spread to other
    markets all around the world. The United States, with bipartisan
    backing, assembled a package of international support to help lift the
    Mexican economy back on track. And you, President Zedillo, rose to your
    daunting challenge with courage and determination. You implemented hard
    measures to stabilize the economy, while holding to the road of reform.
    You knew that the costs of your action were high but the costs of
    inaction were far greater. You recognized your truly historic
    responsibilities, and you met them.
        We overcame tough challenges by making tough decisions and by
    standing together and standing firm for the long-term best interests of
    both our nations. Mexico's early repayment of $700 million serves proof
    that our actions were proper and that they will be rewarded. The Mexican
    economy has turned the corner, and the markets have taken notice.
        The North American Free Trade Agreement helped to speed the recovery
    of international confidence. Even during the financial crisis, Mexico
    kept its NAFTA commitments, lowering its tariffs on American products.
    Today, despite the economic downturn, our exports to Mexico exceed their
    pre-NAFTA levels. And as Mexico's economy regains its strength, not only
    will your people benefit but so, too, will tens of thousands of
    Americans whose well-being also advances when Mexico prospers.
        Mr. President, the United States applauds your grace under pressure,
    your vision for your people, and your unflinching resolve. You have
    coupled far-reaching economic reform with unprecedented progress for
    democracy, throwing open the doors of political participation and
    welcoming every Mexican inside.
        We salute the Mexican people for their extraordinary perseverance.
    They have borne tremendous hardship to build a stronger, more prosperous
    nation. We support your goal of an open, dynamic, and democratic Mexico,
    an inspiration for the region and the entire world.
        President and Mrs. Zedillo, we're glad to have you with us again.
    Welcome to the White House. Welcome back to the United States.

    Note: The President spoke at 10:19 a.m. on the South Lawn at the White
    House. In his remarks, he referred to President's Zedillo's wife, Anilda
    Patricia Zedillo.