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Media Release

The Government of Mexico became a full-fledged partner of the Forum of Federations today, formalizing a long-developing relationship that dates back to the Forum's inception in 1999.

The Forum is a international non-governmental organization that disseminates technical knowledge and advice to existing and emerging federations and to countries considering federal options. Based in Ottawa, Canada, it promotes mutual learning and understanding of federalism among practitioners through conferences, publications and technical missions.

Carlos Abascal, Minister of the Interior of Mexico, signed the partnership agreement on behalf of Mexico; while Arnold Koller, the chairman of the Forum and former President of Switzerland, signed for the Forum.

'By signing this agreement, Mexico becomes the first Latin American country to join the Forum,' said President Koller. 'Mexico's leadership will hopefully pave the way for others in the region' to join in what is becoming an increasingly global organization.

The Forum's six other partner federations are Australia, Austria, Canada, India, Nigeria and Switzerland. The Government of Ethiopia has signed a letter of intent to join the Forum.

Since 1999, the Forum has worked closely with the Mexican state and federal governments and with civil society groups in Mexico. Among the Forum's many Mexican activities was a 2001 conference in Veracruz, attended by more than 1,000 participants, followed by governance programs on fiscal federalism, health, and intergovernmental relations. Mexican delegates have also attended Forum learning events in Belgium, Brazil, Canada and Switzerland.

'To have such an important federation as Mexico become a core supporter of the Forum attests to the considerable value and benefits that our partners see in the Forum's activities,' said Forum President George Anderson. 'I would like to note the invaluable assistance of Marà­a Teresa Garcà­a de Madero, Mexican Ambassador to Canada, in bringing about today's agreement with Mexico.'

For further information, please contact:

Rod Macdonell: (613) 244-3360, ext 203, macdonell@forumfed.org