Governor Gregoire addresses Viva Mexico Gala and accepts award

June 20, 2008

*As Written*


Thank you, Luis.

I am extremely honored to receive this award. As Governor of the great State of Washington, it is always by goal to be a good neighbor to Mexico.

Mexico is an important part of our culture, and Latino-Americans are our fasted growing ethnic population. Not only that, Mexico is one of our most important trading partners.

I know there are probably many here tonight with roots in the great Mexican State of Jalisco (Hall-LEES-co). Jalisco is our sister state! Let’s here a round of applause for our strong sisterly relationship!

When it comes to relationships between Mexico and Washington, we need to build bridges – not walls!

As Governor, I’m all about building bridges.

Mexico is one of our top trading partners, and trade improves the lives of working families on both sides of the border!

That’s why I went to Mexico just last July to promote trade for everything from cherries to dairy products to machinery, and why I welcome our growing Latino-American presence.

May our strong relationship with Mexico grow even stronger in the years to come.

Viva Washington! Viva Mexico!

And thank you for this tremendous honor this evening.