United Press International | Apr 08, 2002
Agriculture officials from both the United States and Mexico have approved an agreement that could boost agriculture-related trade between the two countries.
Agriculture Secretary Ann Veneman and Mexico Agriculture, Livestock, Rural Development, Fisheries and Food Secretary Javier Usabiaga signed a memorandum of understanding that creates a new committee to address trade issues and resolve disputes.
The memorandum came following a two-day meeting last week between the two leaders and their aides in Mexico City.
"These meetings have been very productive and there is a real sense that we can move forward on a number of important issues," Veneman said.
As a preliminary gesture of good will, the two agriculture secretaries approved a deal allowing California stone fruit exports to Mexico during this year's shipping season.
They also will work together on NAFTA implementation, sanitary and phytosanitary issues, cross-border partnerships on animal health and food safety, and biotechnology and research cooperation.
Under the stone fruit agreement, field tests will be conducted for plant pests under an established systems approach. A new penalty structure will be created to allow for product movement.
The new systems approach would not be terminated for pest detections, and the work plan will not penalize a grower's production.
The two agriculture leaders plan to meet again in May to discuss various food-related issues. "We are working together and are looking at ways to further strengthen areas of cooperation and examine ways to continue expanding trade between our two countries," Usabiaga said.
Veneman said her negotiations are part of a continuing policy by President Bush to have closer dealings with Mexico. "An open dialogue will help both our countries continue to expand trade opportunities that will benefit farmers and ranchers on both sides of the border," she said.United Press International:
