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U.S. Department of State Office of the Spokesman Press Statement

Press Statement by James P. Rubin, Spokesman
December 22, 1998

Satellite Agreement With Mexico Signed

Ambassador Vonya B. McCann, U.S. Coordinator, International Communications and Information Policy, yesterday signed on behalf of the United States Government a satellite services protocol with the Government of the United Mexican States. This protocol will expand opportunities for consumers of both countries to use the latest satellite technologies for global mobile satellite services.

The agreement is entitled "Protocol Concerning the Transmission and Reception of Signals from Satellites for the Provision of Mobile-Satellite Services and Associated Feeder Links in the United States of America and the United Mexican States." The protocol establishes the conditions and technical criteria for the use of satellites licensed by the United States and Mexico for the purpose of delivering mobile satellite services to, from and within the territory of both countries. It was concluded pursuant to the April 1996 "Agreement Between the Government of the United States of America and the Government of the United Mexican States Concerning the Transmission and Reception of Signals From Satellites For the Provision of Satellite Services to Users in the United States of America and the United Mexican States."

In reaching this important arrangement, Ambassador McCann stated that "this Protocol will expand market opportunities for satellite operators and satellite service providers in both countries. It also will promote competition in both markets and provide significant benefits for U.S. and Mexican consumers, particularly through more innovative service options. Opening markets in this manner is very beneficial for national economic development by expanding trade, creating new job opportunities, and facilitating international communications." The State Department worked closely with the U.S. Federal Communications Commission on the negotiation of this Protocol, and Ambassador McCann expressed appreciation to FCC Chairman Kennard for these cooperative efforts.

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