FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE - July 1, 1996

Washington, Jalisco sign sister-state agreement

OLYMPIA - Govs. Mike Lowry and Alberto Cárdenas today signed a sister-state agreement to promote trade, tourism and culture between Washington and Jalisco, Mexico.

The agreement links two states of similar size and industry. Jalisco has a population of 5.7 million, compared to Washington's 5.4 million people. Jalisco is known as Mexico's breadbasket, being the largest agricultural and foodstuffs producer in the nation, while Washington is known internationally for its farm products. Both states are also hubs for high technology production. Jalisco's capital is Guadalajara and its prime tourist destination is Puerto Vallarta.

"Today we celebrate our similarity with the wonderful people and culture of Jalisco," Lowry said. "This agreement will move us forward in exchanges of trade, tourism, education, sport and art, so that our two states can become models of international cooperation."

Although Mexico is Washington's 25th largest trading partner, state exports to that nation were down last year due to post-devaluation of the Mexican economy. Gov. Cárdenas is visiting the state on a three-day tour to promote increased trade between the two states.

For more information, contact the Governor's Communications Office at 360-753-6790.