Laredo, TX-- Congressman Henry Cuellar (TX-28) released the following statement regarding an agreement between the United States and Mexico on the 1944 Water Treaty. Mexico will transfer the remaining water owed to the U.S. for this cycle on Friday, October 23, avoiding any deficit.

“I am pleased that an agreement between the United States and Mexico has been reached in accordance with our bilateral 1944 Water Treaty. The Mexican-controlled waters of the international Rio Grande Basin are critical to ensuring that water right holders, in South Texas, can irrigate crops, supply water to municipalities, and conduct industrial operations. 

“That’s why, on September 29^th, I sent a letter to U.S. Secretary of State Pompeo and Mexican Secretary of Foreign Affairs, Marcelo Ebrard, regarding this issue. Earlier this month, I also had the opportunity to meet personally with Secretary Ebrard, in Mexico, and have discussed the issue at great length with Mexican Ambassador to the U.S., Martha Bárcena to emphasize the importance of  obligations being met to continue the strong partnership between our neighboring communities. 

“I want to thank both sides for working with me on this issue and look forward to its enactment.”

Read Congressman Cuellar’s letter to U.S. Secretary of State Mike Pompeo and Mexican Secretary of Foreign Affairs Marcelo Ebrard here.

In the picture: Congressman Henry Cuellar meets with Mexican Secretary of Foreign Affairs Marcelo Ebrard in Mexico City