Going Beyond Symbolism

Mexican President Ernesto Zedillo arrives in California today fully focused on his nation’s relationship with its big American neighbor. The last Mexican president to visit here was Carlos Salinas de Gortari, whose interest was more sharply focused on Washington and the groundwork that established 1994’s North American Free Trade Agreement.

Zedillo comes to California to reciprocate for Gov. Gray Davis’ February visit to Mexico, which marked the start of attempts to mend a relationship damaged during Gov. Pete Wilson’s eight years in Sacramento.

Ties between the neighbors have always been broad, complex and difficult, marked by issues of history, wealth and attitude. Add the fact that the relationship works at a variety of levels, from national to local, and it’s clear that the Mexican president and the California governor will have a full set of problems on the table.

Zedillo appreciates Davis’ conciliatory attitude, which coincides with his own belief that both countries will benefit from sincere efforts to manage such complicated and emotional matters as trade, education, drug trafficking and immigration, legal and illegal.

The two leaders must go beyond symbolism if the exchange is to produce significant change. A starting point could include feelers to the California congressional delegation, a key factor in any legislative action designed to alleviate bilateral problems.

Mexico needs to nourish a respectful relationship with California, where about half of all Mexican immigrants in the United States reside. Money sent home by Mexicans living north of the border represents Mexico’s third-largest source of revenue, after manufactured goods and oil exports.

Mexico is the United States’ second-largest trading partner, after Canada. Texas is the No. 1 state in trade with Mexico, and California No. 2. Davis and Zedillo can help the state gain on Texas, to the benefit of all Californians and Mexicans.

Other problems too are significant, with illegal immigration a political bonfire and denial of state services to legal Mexican recipients a continuing complaint. Both sides need to close the gaps. This trip should mark a new beginning.