Mexican President Vicente Fox addressed students, faculty and the public last week in an unprecedented visit to the University of Calgary.
In his address Fox focused on the changes his administration has made in Mexico, and the resulting opportunities available to Canadians and Mexicans.
“Mexico is no longer and will not be a culture ruled by one man,” said Fox during his Thu., Sept. 29 visit. “Transparency, accountability is a priority for my government.”
With a stable democracy in place, economic development is now a top priority. Mexico, along with Canada and the United States, is a member of the North American Free Trade Agreement, which essentially eliminates domestic trade barriers in North America.
“NAFTA has no doubt been a success,” said Fox. “Through this partnership, Mexico is now the 10th largest economy in the world.”
All this rapid growth provides students with many opportunities. Through the Institute for Sustainable Energy, Environment and Economy, the U of C is involved with the Instituto Mexicano Del Petroleo in fuel cell research and resource exploration and development. Exchange, travel credit and research opportunities are also available to students.
U of C researchers are involved in many collaborative efforts involving not only projects with ISEEE, but business, engineering and archeological advances. A democratically stable Mexico ensures these ties will continue into the future.
“[Mexico is] a country growing economically with stability,” said Fox.
Currently, Trans-Alta Utilities, Canadian Pacific Railway and Precision Drilling are involved in Mexico.