U.S. - Mexico Binational Institutional Repository (BIR)
Agreements
Agreements formalize arrangements or understandings, like MOUs. They establish rights, obligations, and cooperation frameworks. They cover topics such as trade, security, environment, human rights, and economic cooperation. Agreements are legally binding, requiring parties to adhere to their terms and provisions.
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Agreements
During World War I, the Zimmerman Telegram sent by Germany to Mexico in 1917 had significant implications. Intercepted and deciphered by British intelligence, the telegram revealed Germany's offer of military alliance and support for Mexico in reclaiming lost territories from the United States. This revelation intensified anti-German sentiment in the United States and influenced public opinion regarding Germany's intentions and threats to U.S. security. President Woodrow Wilson used the telegram to justify the United States' declaration of war against Germany, leading to its entry into the conflict alongside the Allies.
Institutional Implications: The Zimmerman Telegram had significant institutional implications during World War I. It exposed Germany's attempts to undermine American neutrality and highlighted the importance of intelligence-gathering and code-breaking efforts. The revelation of Germany's offer of military alliance and support for Mexico intensified anti-German sentiment in the United States and influenced public opinion. This incident showcased the role of intelligence agencies and their impact on shaping foreign policy decisions.
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Agreements
The La Paz Agreement, signed between the United States and Mexico, aims to protect, conserve, and improve the environment in the border region of both countries. It covers a 62-mile (100 km) zone on both sides of the international border, including land in American states and Mexican border states, as well as maritime boundaries. The agreement established workgroups to address various environmental concerns, such as water, air, hazardous and solid waste, pollution prevention, contingency planning, and enforcement. In 1992, the Integrated Environmental Plan for the Mexican-U.S. Border Area expanded the initiative with additional workgroups under the Border XXI Program, focusing on environmental information resources, natural resources, and environmental health.
Institutional Implications: The La Paz Agreement has significant institutional implications as it establishes workgroups and encourages the participation of various levels of government and residents. This ensures a collaborative approach to addressing environmental concerns in the border region between the United States and Mexico. The agreement is still active and has been expanded with the Integrated Environmental Plan for the Mexican-U.S. Border Area, indicating its ongoing importance in protecting and improving the environment in the region.
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Agreements
In this news conference, President Bush and President Carlos Salinas de Gortari of Mexico discussed the creation of a trilateral free-trade agreement between the United States, Mexico, and Canada. They emphasize the potential benefits of this agreement, including job creation and increased opportunities for citizens of all three countries. President Bush expresses his commitment to the agreement and his determination to secure favorable action from Congress. President Salinas highlights the importance of the agreement for promoting economic growth and competitiveness in the region. The presidents also address questions about US-Mexico relations, environmental concerns, and the situation in Iraq.
Institutional Implications:
The creation of a trilateral free-trade agreement between the United States, Mexico, and Canada, as discussed by President Bush and President Carlos Salinas de Gortari, carries significant institutional implications. Firstly, it suggests a shift towards a more integrated North American economy, which could potentially reshape the economic landscape of the region. This integration could lead to a redistribution of economic power, with institutions needing to adapt to new trade dynamics and economic realities.
Secondly, the commitment of the U.S. President to secure favorable action from Congress implies a potential change in the legislative agenda and priorities. This could lead to a reorientation of institutional resources and efforts towards the realization of this agreement. It also suggests a potential shift in the balance of power between the executive and legislative branches, with the President taking a more proactive role in shaping trade policy.
Thirdly, the emphasis on job creation and increased opportunities for citizens indicates a potential impact on social institutions. This could lead to changes in labor market dynamics, education and training programs, and social security systems, as these institutions would need to respond to the new opportunities and challenges brought about by the free-trade agreement.
Lastly, the discussion on environmental concerns and the situation in Iraq suggests that the agreement could also have implications for international relations and environmental policy institutions. The need to address these issues could lead to the strengthening of multilateral institutions and the development of new institutional mechanisms for environmental protection and conflict resolution.
In conclusion, the proposed trilateral free-trade agreement could have far-reaching implications for a wide range of institutions, necessitating significant adjustments and reforms.
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Agreement
The goal of NAFTA was to integrate Mexico with the developed economies of the United States and Canada, with the hope of bringing stronger economic growth to Mexico and discouraging illegal migration. While opponents of NAFTA highlighted wage differentials and the potential loss of U.S. jobs, supporters argued that the agreement would create new jobs and modernize the Mexican economy. NAFTA also paved the way for future free trade agreements and incorporated labor and environmental provisions. Economists agree that NAFTA benefited North America's economies, but it is difficult to determine its direct effects due to other factors such as technological change and trade with China.
Institutional Implications:
The establishment of NAFTA represented a significant shift in the institutional framework governing international trade, particularly within North America. It marked a move towards greater economic integration and interdependence among the United States, Canada, and Mexico. This integration had profound implications for the economic policies and strategies of these countries, necessitating a more coordinated approach to trade and economic development.
The institutionalization of NAFTA also had implications for labor and environmental regulations. By incorporating these provisions into the agreement, NAFTA set a precedent for future trade agreements, signaling the growing importance of these issues in international trade discussions. This could potentially lead to more comprehensive and stringent labor and environmental standards in future trade agreements.
Furthermore, NAFTA's impact on job creation and modernization of the Mexican economy indicates the potential of such trade agreements to influence domestic economic structures and policies. This suggests that institutions like NAFTA can play a significant role in shaping the economic trajectory of member countries.
However, the difficulty in determining NAFTA's direct effects due to factors such as technological change and trade with other countries like China underscores the complexity of the institutional implications of such agreements. It suggests that while these agreements can have significant impacts, they are also influenced by and interact with a range of other factors and institutions. This highlights the need for a holistic approach to understanding and managing the institutional implications of trade agreements.
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Agreement
The Mexico Protocol amends the 1936 Convention to allow indigenous inhabitants in Alaska to harvest wild ducks and their eggs for their own nutritional and cultural needs. This amendment is necessary because the inhabitants are unable to participate in the customary autumn hunt when many game birds have already left the state. The spring harvest of waterfowl and their eggs is a long-standing tradition that provides important benefits to the indigenous population. The Protocol will enter into force upon ratification by the United States and Mexico and will remain in effect for the duration of the Convention.
Institutional Implications:
The Mexico Protocol's amendment to the 1936 Convention signifies a significant shift in institutional policy towards recognizing and accommodating the unique cultural and nutritional needs of indigenous populations. This change implies a more inclusive approach, acknowledging the traditional practices of indigenous inhabitants in Alaska. The amendment also indicates a willingness to adapt long-standing conventions to contemporary realities, such as changes in migratory patterns of game birds that affect indigenous hunting practices.
The Protocol's ratification process also underscores the importance of international cooperation in managing shared natural resources. It suggests that both the United States and Mexico are willing to work together to ensure the sustainable use of these resources, while respecting the rights and traditions of indigenous peoples.
The indefinite duration of the Protocol's effect further implies a long-term commitment to these principles. It suggests that the institutions involved recognize the ongoing nature of indigenous rights and the need for sustainable resource management. This could set a precedent for future amendments or protocols, potentially influencing institutional approaches to similar issues elsewhere.
Overall, the Mexico Protocol's amendment to the 1936 Convention reflects a broader institutional trend towards greater inclusivity, sustainability, and international cooperation.
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Agreements
The United States and Mexico have recently amended the Air Transport Agreement of August 15, 1960, focusing on route schedules and operating conditions. The agreement allows designated airlines the flexibility to operate scheduled and all-cargo services on specific routes with various combinations and frequencies. Both parties can designate multiple airlines to enhance air transportation connectivity and flexibility between the two countries.
Institutional Implications: The amendment of the Air Transport Agreement between the United States and Mexico has significant institutional implications. It allows for increased flexibility in route schedules and operating conditions for designated airlines. This promotes enhanced air transportation connectivity and flexibility between the two countries. The agreement also allows for the designation of multiple airlines from both parties. This amendment is still active and facilitates air travel between the United States and Mexico. The agreement was updated in 2015.
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Agreements
The 21st Century Border Management Declaration highlighted the commitment of the United States and Mexico to create an efficient and secure border. It emphasized joint administration to enhance economic competitiveness and security while facilitating the lawful movement of goods and people. The declaration focused on reducing congestion and delays, implementing trusted shipper and traveler programs, enhancing information sharing, and coordinating law enforcement efforts. To carry out the objectives, a Bilateral Executive Steering Committee was established.
Institutional Implications: The 21st Century Border Management Declaration established a Bilateral Executive Steering Committee to create an efficient and secure border between the United States and Mexico. While non-binding, the declaration set the stage for collaborative border management within the participating countries' legal frameworks and available resources.
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Agreements
The agreement governing international air transportation between the United States and Mexico promotes competition, expands air transport opportunities, and prioritizes safety and security in aviation. It grants rights for air transportation, including flying across each other's territory and making non-traffic stops. The agreement outlines airline designation, authorization, revocation provisions, laws, safety standards, aviation security, commercial opportunities, and customs duties.
Institutional Implications: The agreement between the United States and Mexico promotes competition and expands air transport opportunities between the two countries. It has been enforced since July 22, 2016, and is still active. This agreement enhances connectivity and collaboration in air transportation, benefiting both countries.
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Agreements
Border 2025: United States-Mexico Environmental Program is a five-year binational effort to protect the environment and public health in the U.S.-Mexico border region. Building on previous initiatives, the program focuses on reducing air pollution, improving water quality, promoting sustainable materials management, and enhancing joint preparedness for environmental emergencies.
Institutional Implications: Border 2025: United States-Mexico Environmental Program has significant institutional implications as it involves multiple stakeholders from different sectors. The program requires coordination and collaboration among state and local governments, indigenous communities, NGOs, academia, industry representatives, and other stakeholders. This implies the need for effective communication, resource allocation, and decision-making processes. The program is still active and aims to protect the environment and public health in the U.S.-Mexico border region by addressing various environmental challenges.
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Agreements
The Agreement for Cooperation in Peaceful Uses of Nuclear Energy between the United States and Mexico strengthens diplomatic and economic relations while promoting energy security cooperation. Known as a 123 agreement, it establishes a comprehensive framework for peaceful nuclear collaboration with Mexico, emphasizing a mutual commitment to nonproliferation. The agreement facilitates the transfer of nuclear material, equipment, components, and information for research and power production.
Institutional Implications: The Agreement for Cooperation in Peaceful Uses of Nuclear Energy between the United States and Mexico has strengthened diplomatic and economic relations between the two countries. This bilateral agreement, the first of its kind, builds upon nearly 80 years of peaceful nuclear cooperation between the two countries. This bilateral agreement, which is still active, establishes a comprehensive framework for peaceful nuclear collaboration and emphasizes mutual commitment to nonproliferation. The agreement promotes sustainable development and energy security cooperation.
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Agreement
The North American Partnership for Equity and Racial Justice declaration was signed by U.S. Secretary of State Antony J. Blinken, Mexican Foreign Secretary Marcelo Ebrard, and Canadian Foreign Minister Mélanie Joly.
This declaration was made to build on past efforts of the 2021 North American Leaders’ Summit with President López Obrador of Mexico, Prime Minister Trudeau of Canada, and President Biden Jr. of the U.S., commitment to establishing just, inclusive, and equitable democracies that combat systemic racism and discrimination.
The Partnership aims to:
1. Work within each country to promote equity and justice and remove barriers to equal opportunity for marginalized communities.
2. Establish a Trilateral Racial Equity and Inclusion Expert Network to share best practices, identify areas for action, and engage communities with lived experiences of racism and discrimination.
3. Collaborate with regional and multilateral organizations to advance equity and justice through commitments such as the UN Declaration on the Rights of Indigenous Peoples and the International Decade for People of African Descent.
Institutional Implications:
• The partnership represents a commitment by the three countries to work together to address systemic racism and discrimination. Establishing a Trilateral Racial Equity and Inclusion Expert Network will facilitate sharing of information, best practices, and innovative strategies to identify further action areas.
• Collaborating to advance equity and racial justice through participation in regional and multilateral organizations like the United Nations is also significant, recognizing the importance of working together to address systemic racism and discrimination globally.
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Agreement
On March 25, 2023, the ambassadors of Mexico to the U.S., Esteban Moctezuma, and of the U.S. to Mexico, Ken Salazar, signed two memoranda of understanding (MOUs) to strengthen labor mobility and protection of unaccompanied minors in a situation of mobility.
The first MOU, signed by the Mexican Foreign Ministry, National Employment Service (SNE), and the U.S. Departments of State and Labor, aims to improve the labor rights of Mexican workers in the U.S. The agreement commits both governments to ensure the ethical recruitment of Mexican nonimmigrant workers with H2 visas, protect their wages and working conditions, and facilitate temporary Mexican agricultural employment by the laws of both countries. It also includes quarterly meetings to monitor and report labor rights violations, provide anti-discrimination training, and protect workers who file complaints.
The second MOU seeks to protect unaccompanied minors who migrate through Mexico and the U.S. by creating bilateral mechanisms between governments. The goal is to prevent children from traveling unregulated through the region and coming into contact with criminal trafficking networks. Additionally, it aims to promote international cooperation with other countries in the region to protect minors.
Institutional Implications:
• The signing of the two MOUs demonstrates a commitment by both governments to work together to address migration challenges and find solutions that benefit both countries.
• The MOU on Labor Mobility has implications for the institutional frameworks governing labor rights and protections in both countries. By strengthening the labor rights of Mexican workers in the U.S., the MOU could help to reduce the exploitation and abuse of migrant workers, which has been a longstanding issue in the U.S.
• The MOU on Unaccompanied Minors in a Situation of Mobility has implications for the institutional frameworks governing child protection and welfare in both countries. By creating bilateral mechanisms to strengthen security for unaccompanied minors, the MOU could help to address the humanitarian crisis at the U.S.-Mexico border, where thousands of children have been detained and separated from their families in recent years.
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Agreement
President Joseph R. Biden Jr. has granted permission to the General Services Administration to expand and continue operating a vehicular and pedestrian crossing at the Calexico East Land Port of Entry to Mexico in Calexico, California. The permit includes the construction of additional lanes and requires compliance with federal laws and regulations. The permittee must also maintain the facilities in good repair and implement measures to mitigate adverse impacts on the environment. The permit is subject to the approval of the President for any transfer of ownership or control.
Institutional Implications:
The decision by President Joseph R. Biden Jr. to allow the General Services Administration (GSA) to expand the Calexico East Land Port of Entry has several institutional implications. Firstly, it signifies a commitment to enhancing cross-border trade and movement, which could potentially stimulate economic growth and foster stronger bilateral relations with Mexico.
Secondly, the requirement for the permittee to comply with federal laws and regulations underscores the administration's commitment to upholding the rule of law. This could set a precedent for future infrastructure projects, ensuring they are carried out within the legal framework.
Thirdly, the mandate for the permittee to maintain the facilities in good repair and implement environmental mitigation measures reflects the administration's focus on sustainability and responsible infrastructure development. This could influence the operational practices of the GSA and other similar institutions, pushing them towards more environmentally friendly practices.
Lastly, the stipulation that any transfer of ownership or control must be approved by the President indicates a desire to maintain oversight and control over critical infrastructure. This could have implications for the institutional autonomy of the GSA and other agencies involved in infrastructure development and management. It could also potentially impact future public-private partnerships, as private entities may be deterred by the prospect of presidential oversight.
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