Ambassador Garza’s Remarks at the Groundbreaking Ceremony
of the U.S. Consulate General in Tijuana
April 3, 2008 – “While the big policy themes are formulated and hammered out
in Washington and Mexico, it is on the border where policies
face reality and where they often have their biggest impact.
Whether the issue is immigration, water, commerce, law enforcement
or border security, if you really want to understand, you
have to come to Tijuana…” (complete
text)
Remarks by Ambassador Garza at the launch of the “Tómatelo
a Pecho” (“Take it to heart”) program of the Carso Institute
March 11, 2008 – “In the United States, because of early detection and improved
treatment, the five-year survival rate for women who were
diagnosed with early stage breast cancer is 98%, and there
are nearly 2.5 million survivors of breast cancer living today.
It’s time for these advances to be brought to women, not only
in Mexico but everywhere. I’m sure that is one of the main
goals of the Carso Institute.” (complete
text)
Remarks
by Ambassador Garza at the inauguration of the 7th. Annual
Convention of the American Chamber of Commerce
February 25, 2008 – “As we move forward we all need
to continue asking the tough, strategic questions about
where we are headed in the next few years, making sure that
leadership in both our countries does what is necessary
to make North America the most democratic, safe and prosperous
continent on Earth.” (complete
text)
Remarks
by Ambassador Garza at the inauguration of Expo
Vacaciones USA 2008
February 12, 2008 – “This is a very important event
for me because I really believe that travel and tourism
is a great way to build stronger ties and share common values
between our countries. I am sure that the 31st edition of
Expo Vacaciones USA will be an enormous
success, and I really appreciate all your efforts in order
to promote the United States.” (complete
text)
Garza:
Mexico Among World Leaders in Criminal Extraditions to U.S.
December 4, 2007 – “Mendoza is the 80th fugitive extradited
by Mexico to face justice in the U.S. this year, far surpassing
last year’s record of 63 and almost doubling the 2005 total....
The cooperation and coordination between the Calderon administration
and U.S. law enforcement is clearly demonstrating to criminals
that Mexico will not allow itself to be used as a refuge
or safe-haven.” (complete
text)
Remarks by Ambassador Garza at the inauguration of the new
FAST lane of the Colombia Solidarity Bridge
December 4, 2007 – “...the thousands of trucks that cross here and the other
bridges along our border are bringing that prosperity with
them as they carry their tons of commerce from one side to
the other. This newest FAST Lane will account for faster and
more efficient trade between Mexico and the United States,
thereby more prosperity for people of both nations.” (complete
text)
Remarks by Ambassador Garza at the inauguration of the new
SENTRI lane in Hidalgo/Reynosa
December 4, 2007 – “From San Ysidro to Brownsville, from Tijuana to Matamoros,
the SENTRI program has proven to be a model for safe and efficient
border crossings. The mayors and county judges present here
today have worked to make their municipalities models of good
government, and I am pleased that the Mexican and U.S. Federal
governments can support their efforts with the SENTRI program.”
(complete
text)
Ambassador Garza’s Toast at the Marine Corps Ball
November 17, 2007 – “Please join me in toasting, first to all of the members of
the armed services, who have so bravely served their country
with honor. And here is to the Marines in particular on this
night of their birthday celebration, may they continue the
courageous work that started 232 years ago in Philadelphia’s
Tun Tavern. Thank you for your dedication, your sacrifice,
and your service.” (complete
text)
Remarks by Ambassador Garza at the 90th Anniversary Of the American Chamber of Commerce
November 15, 2007 – “Tonight,
I’d ask you to raise a glass and join me in asking God to
bless not only the United States, Mexico, and the American
Chamber, but also to continue to give strength and courage
to those who are committed to building bridges of understanding
between our two countries, not walls of separation.”
(complete
text)
Remarks
by Ambassador Garza at the closing of the "Parks in
Peril - Mexico" Program
October 15, 2007 – “For the USG, this ceremony provides
an important opportunity to recognize the success of this
impressive international program. However, recognizing the
end of this program does not mean our collaboration is finished.
The USG will continue to partner together with Mexico and
other countries around the world to protect and preserve
our biodiversity for the benefit of all of our children.”
(complete
text)
Welcoming
remarks made by Ambassador Garza at The reception for the
National Conference of Western Attorneys General
September 19, 2007 – “When we talk about security,
there is no doubt that bilateral cooperation is the key.
We intend to continue and expand our cooperation with Mexico
and I encourage you all to keep up the good work in diligently
fighting crime.” (complete
text)
Ambassador
Garza - September 11 Ceremony Speech
September 11, 2007 – “So today let’s celebrate and re-commit ourselves as free
people. We are building bridges of partnership with Mexico
that will make both our countries more secure and more prosperous.
Let us hope, and pray, and work every day to make this post
9-11 world a better, more secure and more prosperous world.” (complete
text)
Ambassador
Garza’s Remarks at the 4th of July Celebration
July 4, 2007 – “One of the things that frustrated
me as the immigration debate unfolded in the United States
Senate is that many do not yet appreciate the depth of the
United States-Mexico relationship, or what today’s Mexico
is doing to meet the great challenges it faces. And we have
much to do before they truly understand.” (complete
text)
Ambassador Garza Commemorates America’s Sacrifice
May 28, 2007 – Garza: “There have been times, some distant and some not so distant, when the nations represented here were in conflict with each other. And yet, here we sit in this beautiful garden and cemetery – as friends and allies... Ultimately, we know that those ideals cherished by democracies – freedom of expression, worship – only happen through service and sacrifice.”(complete text)
Remarks by Amb. Garza at the Inauguration of SENTRI lane between Brownsville and Matamoros
April 27, 2007 – "Initiatives like the SENTRI lane allow goods and law-abiding citizens to cross our border while allowing us to dedicate our law enforcement resources to confronting unlawful and dangerous crossings from both sides of the border. Mexicans and Americans deserve the right to enjoy security and prosperity in this beautiful region, and it is our shared responsibility to make that happen."(complete text)
AMANC Give Your Heart to A Child with Cancer Campaign - Delivery of Proceeds
Remarks by Ambassador Antonio O. Garza
February 14, 2007 - "We know these contributions are a small token of our deep respect for AMANC, the organization, and our deep admiration for you, the children of AMANC. Thank you for letting us share Valentines Day with you, and thank you for continuing to inspire us with your courage, your hope and your enormous hearts."(complete text)
The Conservation Coffee Alliance, A Global Development Alliance - Remarks in Chiapas by Ambassador Garza
February 13, 2007 - "I am here tonight to applaud Starbucks Coffee and Conservation International for their unique vision to promote conservation coffee – an effort that brings quality coffee to consumers all over the world while improving environmental protection."(complete text)
"Senda Sur" Ecotourism Private Sector Partnership in Chiapas
Bringing Neighbors together as Partners in the Tourism Industry
February 13, 2007 - "With the creation of Senda Sur, 16 communities and 4 tour operators have come together to develop tour packages, promote the region and improve their overall services.... Our Peace Corp plans to provide a volunteer with extensive tourism experience to work with Senda Sur for two years."(complete text)
"Specialty Conservation Coffee Program in Chiapas" - Remarks by Ambassador Garza
February 13, 2007 - "Under the strong leadership of Gov. Sabines, our Mission in Mexico has worked with local communities to identify how to improve production, harvesting and processing. But more importantly, the local people of this region have gone to work transforming fields, communities and changing their own lives."(complete text)
Remarks by Ambassador Garza at Opening of Forensic Laboratory
September 22, 2006 "The new forensic laboratory that we are inaugurating today is undoubtedly one of the most important achievements that the State has had in its work to increase its citizens’ trust in their justice system. This laboratory will help resolve criminal cases and bring dangerous criminals to justice. We all hope, as well, that this laboratory will help in the investigations of the hundreds of unsolved cases of murder of women in the Ciudad Juárez area in the past several years."(complete text)
Remarks by Amb. Garza at the State Treasurers' Luncheon
August 10, 2006 – There is no greater cooperation than sitting down together to share our ideas and to learn from each other. We may speak different languages, but it’s critical that we share the language of transparency and accountability in our governments.(complete text)
Remarks by Amb. Garza at the Visit to the Instituto Cultural Mexicano Norteamericano de Michoacan
August 10, 2006 – Whether reading the history of far away places or having a cup of coffee with someone from a different country, true diplomacy is accomplished through understanding. And true understanding happens in places like this.(complete text)
Remarks by Amb. Garza at the Independence Day Celebration
July 4, 2006 - "As we celebrate our two strong democracies today, let us also remember those around the world who do not benefit from the freedoms we witnessed here on Sunday and that we exercise everyday in the United States and Mexico."(complete text)
Ambassador Garza says continued U.S.-Mexico Cooperation Is Key to Reducing the Trade in Illegal Drugs
June 12, 2006 - "One of the great success stories of the U.S.-Mexican bilateral relationship has been the increasingly strong cooperation between our law enforcement agencies. That cooperation has helped us to combat crime, not just in the border region, but throughout our two countries… And let’s be honest… much of the credit for this success should go to an extraordinary leader who is not here with us today… and that is President Vicente Fox": Ambassador Garza.(complete text)
Ambassador Garza’s Remarks: “Commemorating Those Who Went Before”
May 29, 2006 - "I think, we must remember those who have gone before us in peace and in conflict, at home and abroad, serving in the U.S. military. Service is both the greatest burden and the greatest reward": Ambassador Garza.(complete text)
Commencement Speech by Ambassador Garza at the University of Texas at Austin
May 20, 2006 - "Sharing (the American) dream is one of the great challenges of our time – and one that requires both wisdom and compassion. Simply building walls does not speak America to me. I know we can be both a welcoming society and a secure and lawful one." - Amb. Garza(complete text)
Remarks by Ambassador Garza at the Inaugural Ceremony of the New Consulate Building in Ciudad Juarez
Ciudad Juarez, March 7, 2006 - "When completed, this new facility will be a shining example of the importance and strength of the United States-Mexico relationship. Mexico is our long-term friend and partner. Together we are working to advance democracy, to promote prosperity and development, and to maintain safe and secure borders that will benefit the citizens of both of our countries." - Amb. Garza(complete text)
Remarks By Ambassador Garza At The Announcement Of The Border Health Awards
Ciudad Juarez, March 7, 2006 - "I am proud to announce today that the U.S. government is donating more than $1 million for four new initiatives that address specific health challenges in four locations along the U.S.-Mexico border in Tijuana, Agua Prieta, Monterrey, and Ciudad Juarez."(complete text)
Remarks by Amb. Garza at the Commemoration of Black History Month
Feb. 21, 2006 - "People of all backgrounds, all colors, and all religions live together in the United States in unusual peace and harmony, and the diverseness of our backgrounds is a cause for celebration. Our society surely is not perfect, but we stand as a beacon of openness and plurality for societies around the world."(complete text)
Remarks by Ambassador Garza on Veterans Day
November 11, 2005 - On this day when we remember all those who have served in the uniform of the United States, we hope for the peace for which they fought and we remember the words of Franklin Roosevelt to which every American veteran is a testament: “Freedom is not free.”(complete text)
Remarks at the 2005 American Charity Tennis Classic Ceremony
September 21, 2005 - "The funds raised by American Charity Tennis Classic will strengthen the programs of these four organizations we are honoring today, and their focus on teamwork, sound judgment, and self-discipline. I am pleased to see the private sector and community organizations working together to help the disadvantaged secure a place on the playing field."(complete text)
Remarks by U.S. Ambassador Tony Garza at the 20th Anniversary of the 1985 Earthquake in Mexico City
September 19, 2005 - "Today, this same spirit of mutual support and friendship are as evident as they were 20 ago. In the past few days, as a result of Hurricane Katrina, Americans witnessed one more demonstration of Mexican generosity. I was moved by the compassion and solidarity in the faces of those Mexicans who worked shoulder-to-shoulder with the American people and who helped us start down a new path."(complete text)
An Open Letter to the People of Mexico on their Independence Day
September 13, 2005. As Mexico’s Independence Day approaches, the Mexican people are deservedly proud of their distinguished history, rich culture, and independence. On this Independence Day, I want the Mexican people to know that they also have the respect, gratitude and heartfelt appreciation of the people of the United States.(complete text)
Ambassador Garza’s Keynote Speech Accepting the Distinguished Diplomat Award from the University of Denver
August 16, 2005 - "As diplomatic, political, academic, and business leaders, we should be working toward a vision for U.S.-Mexico relations which is neither exclusively American nor Mexican… something new, one that is unique and respectful of each of our proud histories. Our goal should be a new North American vision that offers inspiration and direction, not only to what is already a dynamic U.S./Mexico relationship, but to the rest of the hemisphere as well."(complete text)
Remarks by Ambassador Tony Garza at the Religious Service Conducted in Memory of the Victims of the Terrorist Attack in London on July 7
July 12, 2005 - "The attacks in London last Thursday strengthen the unity of the civilized world to foster tolerance and stop the murder of innocent civilians."(complete text)
Toast by Amb. Garza at the Reception to Commemorate Independence Day
"The United States of America and our friend, Mexico, are united in our common desire to see all of our citizens enjoy the fruits of independence, democracy and liberty. We welcome the benefits and the struggles that come with freedom and the pursuit of happiness."(complete text)
Remarks by Ambassador Tony Garza during the Meeting with Members of the American Chamber of Commerce and the Mexican PGR on Intellectual Property Rights Protection
June 21, 2005 - "I appreciate the considerable efforts Mexico has made to improve IPR protection. I also recognize that a lot of hard work remains... I am very glad to see that PGR officials and Amcham members have come together this morning to do just that."(complete text)
Remarks by Ambassador Garza at "Hemispheria 2005” Conference
May 13, 2005 - "There is little doubt that the U.S. and Mexico are strong and democratic allies in our globalized world, and we’ll continue to work together to modernize and develop our economies and societies".(complete text)
Remarks by Ambassador Garza at the Opening of the Monumental Sculptures Exhibition
"During my time in Mexico, I have learned that art can be a powerful diplomatic tool. That may sound strange to some of you, but look at the group gathered here today. We came together to celebrate not only these important works of sculpture, but also the role that the arts play in enriching our lives and sparking dialogue." (04/15/05)(complete text)
Remarks by Ambassador Garza at World Tuberculosis Day
"Today we publicly recognize the advances that Mexico has achieved in tuberculosis control. I also want to take this opportunity to reaffirm the commitment of the United States government." (03/15/05)(complete text)
Remarks by Ambassador Garza before the American Chamber of Commerce
"Clearly, Mexico is integral to the President's vision of a North American continent free of terrorism, competitive with the world’s strongest economies, and supportive of vigorous democratic institutions". (03/03/05)(complete text)
Remarks by Ambassador Garza at the Camara de Diputados "Friends of the United States of America" Group Ceremony
"I want the Chamber and people of Mexico to know that we support your efforts to create better understanding and build stronger ties between our two nations and am here to offer the helping hand of a neighbor and a friend." (02/24/05)(complete text)
Remarks by Ambassador Garza at opening of Press Conference with Chihuahua State Governor
"Our strong cooperation on law enforcement and border safety is clearly essential because it enables us to carry out our most important responsibility as public servants -- ensuring the safety and well-being of both Mexican and American citizens." (02/03/05)(complete text)
Ambassador Garza’s Speech On New Technology to Reduce Air Pollution
"We are here today in an effort to protect our lives and to emphasize the spirit of cooperation between our countries; since pollution does not recognize borders, we should not allow borders to stop us from preventing pollution whenever we can." (01/24/05)(complete text)
English version of the remarks by Ambassador Garza on the occasion of the donation of four Fulbright-Garcia Robles scholarships by the Azteca Foundation
"While programs like these are entertaining, there is an open debate in both the U.S. and Mexico regarding the powerful role that television and other media sources play in shaping public opinion. Media outlets must accept a role of social responsibility to provide a forum for debate of important issues." (11/30/04)(complete text)
Remarks by Ambassador Garza To the World Affairs Council of San Antonio 2004
"I also want to congratulate the National Autonomous University of Mexico (UNAM) for its 60 years of history in San Antonio. I have to tell you I was surprised to find out it's been here that long! This shows how far-sighted UNAM has been in appreciating the integration and convergence between Mexico and Texas..." (10/21/04)(complete text)
English version of Ambassador Garza's Remarks at the Ceremony of Repatriation of Stolen Altar Piece
"I am increasingly impressed at the level of commitment and cooperation I see in law enforcement agencies working together on both sides of the border, their willingness to share information and strong desire to solve problems together." (09/28/04)(complete text)
Remarks by Ambassador Garza at the Seminar "Reflecting on North American Integration: NAFTA, FTAA, and the Doha Round"
"Our free trade agreement, of course, is about more than just economic integration. It is about improving quality of life, growth, and stability. It closely links our societies, not only through trade, but also travel, tourism, cultural and intellectual exchange…" (09/27/04)(complete text)
Remarks by Ambassador Garza at the 12th. Environmental Congress
"The track record of the U.S. and Mexico on environmental issues is becoming a litany of success. U.S. and Mexican government agencies have been working together on projects ranging from clean energy and climate change to forest, ocean, and wildlife conservation." (09/08/04)(complete text)
Remarks by Ambassador Garza at "Casa de la Amistad para Niños con Cáncer"
"I know too well the challenge that cancer brings to a family. I know that this is a time of struggle for many of you and that at times that struggle can seem overwhelming. But I look around me and I see a sunny place, full of welcome and strong with hope." (07/29/04)(complete text)
Toast offered by Ambassador Garza during the Independence Day Celebration
"We celebrate the commitment and vision of our forefathers to a democratic future that we had the good fortune to inherit, but recognize that the task of building a democracy is never complete". (06/30/04)(complete text)
Commencement Speech of Ambassador Garza at the Southern Methodist University
"Graduation speeches are a little tough. I can’t honestly say I remember the one given at my college graduation or my own law school graduation here at SMU for that matter. Nor do I have any illusions that you’ll remember much of this one. It’s not a political speech, nor a reminder of the extraordinary challenges we face in the world today." (05/15/04)(complete text)
Ambassador Garza's Remarks to COPARMEX
"While an opinion poll released last October found that only 1 out of 4 Mexicans believed that exports to the U.S. had increased under NAFTA, Mexico now exports to the United States more than twice the 1993 amount. Your country remains our second largest trading partner, behind only Canada." (05/12/04)(complete text)
Remarks by Ambassador Garza at the Earth Day/GLOBE event
"In my country, we celebrated the first Earth Day more than 30 years ago when more than 20 million people from all walks of life and all sectors of society came together and urged the government to do more to protect the national environment." (04/29/04)(complete text)
“I’m Optimistic” Ambassador Garza speaks on U.S. – Mexico Relations at the World Affairs Councils of Houston and Dallas
"We should want an inter-American community that is bound by freedom and democracy. We should want secure borders. We should want our neighbors to prosper through free trade. Perhaps more than anybody, Texans understand that." (03/ 24-25/ 04)(complete text)