Matamoros, Mexico - U.S. Ambassador to Mexico Anthony Wayne met with officials, business leaders, and students on his first visit to Matamoros.

"We are working to create a 21st century border that facilitates trade and travel while ensuring the security of both our nations," said Ambassador Wayne. "Matamoros is an important location to see first-hand, the issues that affect U.S.-Mexico relations and how we can improve cooperation to increase cross-border trade and economic prosperity."

In separate meetings with Tamaulipas Governor Egidio Torre Cantú and Matamoros Mayor Alfonso Sánchez Garza, Ambassador Wayne discussed bilateral cooperation as well as border and security issues. He told Governor Torre Cantú that "...as part of the Merida Initiative, the U.S. government will be delivering $4 million USD in equipment for the Tamaulipas State Police academy early this year in addition to training the police on its use."

"I'm very happy to welcome U.S. Ambassador Anthony Wayne to Tamaulipas. The border is a bridge of communication, and through collaboration together we will be able to achieve prosperity for both our nations," said Governor for Tamaulipas Egidio Torre Cantú.

Ambassador Wayne met with local manufacturers association and business leaders to discuss the sector's important role in generating employment in the region. There are approximately 375 manufacturers in Tamaulipas which employ over 150,000 people.

At the end of his visit, Ambassador Wayne spoke to students from local universities. They talked about the importance of education for both countries' futures, the impact of security issues on the students' lives, and how all youth can work to improve their communities.