The United States and Mexico commemorated 200 years of bilateral relations on Monday with the signing of a Declaration of Friendship between the two countries, a milestone that the governments of the two states have described as a «unique opportunity» to explore their shared past.
At the commemoration event, held at the Mexican Foreign Ministry building, the Latin American country’s foreign minister, Marcelo Ebrard, and U.S. presidential advisor Chris Dodd emphasized that «it is an appropriate moment» for the construction of agreements between the countries of North America, according to a statement issued by Mexico’s diplomatic corps.
Dodd mentioned that, «thanks to the deep ties that unite both nations», Mexico and the United States «have a great opportunity to consolidate the region as a democratic, economic and clean energy power in the world», adding that in the next 200 years «they will continue to work together to meet the objectives and address the shared challenges».
For its part, the Mexican diplomacy has affirmed that the history of both States «is intimately intertwined» and that it is impossible to understand the course of each one’s history without the presence of the other.
«In these celebrations we will reflect on the complex global moment we live in, if our past and our present are related; the success of both countries in the future will also depend to a great extent on the bilateral relationship,» Ebrad emphasized.
Meanwhile, U.S. President Joe Biden highlighted the commitment of both countries to freedom, democracy and the rule of law: «Today, the United States and Mexico celebrate 200 years of bilateral relations. As our closest neighbors and friends, we share a set of values that are at the root of our strength».
According to the U.S. President, the date serves to highlight the economic and security partnership between Mexico and the United States, which has made North America «the most competitive and dynamic region in the world.
In this sense, Biden highlighted the importance of the event since it falls on the Day of Our Lady of Guadalupe, «a holiday with deep religious and cultural significance for millions of Mexicans and Mexican-Americans».
«Today, we also honor the cultural and family ties that unite our people and the many unique contributions of Mexican-Americans, which have strengthened and enriched the United States for generations,» said the tenant of the White House.
«Throughout our shared history, Mexico and the United States have shown that we are stronger and more secure when we stand together,» he added.
