[Weekly Compilation of Presidential Documents Volume 34, Number 24 (Monday, June 15, 1998)]
[Pages 1068-1069]
[Online from the Government Publishing Office, www.gpo.gov]

<R04>
Joint Communique With President Ernesto Zedillo of Mexico

June 8, 1998

    The President of Mexico, Ernesto Zedillo, and the President of the 
United States, Bill Clinton, met today in New York City.
    During their conversation, both Presidents expressed their 
satisfaction regarding the convening of the United Nations General 
Assembly Special Session on Illicit Drugs. They agreed with the 
comprehensive approach to deal with the problem of drugs based on the 
principle of shared responsibility on the part of all nations.
    The Presidents of Mexico and the United States reviewed the many 
improvements that have taken place in the bilateral relationship. Trade 
was among the specific topics discussed. They noted that the increase in 
the bilateral trade of goods and services has been remarkable. In this 
regard, the Presidents agreed to seek solutions to pending disagreements 
in the trade agenda, in order to further eliminate obstacles to the free 
flow of goods and services between both countries.
    Regarding migration issues, both Presidents underscored the priority 
that their governments give to the protection of the human rights of 
migrants and to a safe and orderly border. They agreed to continue 
broadening and strengthening specific measures to achieve these 
objectives.
    President Clinton praised the courageous efforts of the Mexican 
people in fighting the recent forest fires in their country. President 
Zedillo conveyed appreciation for the assistance provided by the United 
States Government in this endeavor.
    Bilateral cooperation against drug trafficking was given special 
consideration. The Presidents underscored the importance of combating 
all drug trafficking, in conformity with the laws in each country. They 
noted that this objective is best accomplished through improved 
cooperation and mutual trust, with full respect for the sovereignty of 
both nations. They agreed to strengthen mechanisms in their countries to 
deal with antidrug and money laundering efforts, and to improve 
cooperation, communication and information exchange between both 
governments.
    The Presidents reaffirmed their governments' commitment to further 
the objectives and fully comply with the principles stated in the 
``Declaration of the Alliance against Drugs'', which both signed in 
Mexico City, in May 1997. They therefore welcomed and endorsed agreement 
between Attorneys General Reno and Madrazo to develop a process for 
improved consultation and collaboration on law enforcement operations of 
mutual interest and avoid actions that could have undesirable effects on 
the bilateral relationship, and through this process strengthen that 
relationship. The U.S. and Mexican Attorneys General working in 
consultation with their respective Treasury and Hacienda officials will 
intensify efforts to investigate and prosecute narcotics trafficking and 
money laundering networks. They also will determine additional measures, 
such as regulations, enforcement techniques and actions, that should be 
taken in their own countries to deter organized crime, drug trafficking 
and money laundering in the future. The two Attorneys General will meet 
again in the days to come to define the common agenda.
    Presidents Zedillo and Clinton reaffirmed their commitment to 
continue to work together in all aspects of the bilateral agenda and to 
further pursue the mature relationship and the friendship that is vital 
for the well-being of both peoples.

Note: An original was not available for verification of this joint 
communique.

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