[Weekly Compilation of Presidential Documents Volume 36, Number 18 (Monday, May 8, 2000)]
[Page 1011]
[Online from the Government Publishing Office, www.gpo.gov]

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Message on the Observance of Cinco de Mayo, 2000

May 4, 2000

    Warm greetings to everyone celebrating Cinco de Mayo.
    This annual celebration of the Mexican Army's triumph at the Battle 
of Puebla reminds us all of Mexico's long-standing commitment to the 
ideals of freedom and self-determination. United by our common 
convictions, the United States and Mexico have long enjoyed warm ties of 
friendship and mutual respect, and in recent years, our two nations have 
worked hard to cultivate this increasingly close partnership. From the 
arts to business to education to the environment, citizens of the United 
States and Mexico are gaining a greater understanding and a new 
appreciation of each other, increasing our prospects for a future of 
peace and prosperity.
    We must continue working to open new bridges of friendship and 
cooperation. This is a promising time for the Americas, and we have an 
historic opportunity to build our collective economic strength, improve 
the well-being of our people, and advance the movement toward democracy 
of all the nations in our hemisphere. As we celebrate Mexico's valiant 
fight for independence, let us rededicate ourselves to the principles 
that inspired the Mexican patriots who fought at Puebla and strive 
together to forge a brighter future for all our citizens.
    Best wishes to all for a wonderful celebration.
                                                  Bill Clinton