SACRAMENTO - Assemblyman Ricardo Lara (D-Bell Gardens), Downey's representative in the state Assembly, joined a coalition of California lawmakers on a trip to Mexico City this week in an effort to "strengthen the economic ties between California's largest and most important trading partner."The delegation also included Speaker John Perez and Assembly members Nathan Fletcher, Nancy Skinner and Ben Hueso. "I am honored to participate in this international visit and these important conversations. The 50th Assembly District, which I represent, has strong ethnic, cultural and business ties with (Mexico)," said Lara. "As a region and a state, we must work together to find common ground and ensure both economies don't just survive, but find ways to thrive in this time of global economic uncertainty." The delegation was scheduled to meet with President Felipe Calderon and members of the Mexican Cabinet, Senate and Chamber of Deputies. The trip will culminate Friday with a celebration of Mexico's Independence Day. The trip was funded by the Council of State Governments, a national organization that "fosters the exchange of insights and ideas that help shape public policy."

********** Published: September 15, 2011 - Volume 10 - Issue 22