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.