Advancing Biodiversity Conservation and the Sustainable Development in Southern Mexico

Cancun, Quintana Roo, February 23, 2022.  In the presence of the United States Ambassador to Mexico, Ken Salazar, the Director of the United States Agency for International Development (USAID) Mission in Mexico, Bruce Abrams, signed a Letter of Intent with, The Nature Conservancy (TNC) and the Governments of Campeche, Chiapas, Oaxaca, Quintana Roo, Tabasco, Veracruz, and Yucatán, committing to collaborate on efforts to promote conservation and the sustainable development of southern Mexico.

The southeast region of Mexico harbors an enormous cultural heritage and natural wealth.  This region is an incomparable tourist destination for its culture, history, and unique landscapes.  It is part of the Mesoamerican Biological Corridor in which numerous species live, many of them endemic, being recognized among the most critical regions in the world for its mega diversity. Despite all the cultural and natural wealth, many communities in southeast Mexico face economic, social and environmental challenges.  

USAID, in partnership with TNC and a consortium of partners, is implementing the Sustainable Prosperous Communities (SPC) Activity. SPC will operate in Yucatan, Quintana Roo, Campeche, Chiapas and Oaxaca to strengthen the capacity of smallholder producers to transition to sustainable and profitable productive practices, and to access markets along selected value chains. In addition, the Activity will develop financial products tailored to smallholder producer needs and build their capacity to access finance to drive sustainability, innovation, and scale to reach markets.

For their part, the State Governments who are signatories of the Letter, commit to work together for the region's economic development and environmental protection. The Letter offers an opportunity for representatives from the different states and agencies to promote dialogue and exchange lessons learned and knowledge regarding efforts such as the promotion of investment in sustainable value chains.

During this event the Ambassador of the United States, Ken Salazar, highlighted the historic nature of this day and praised governors for their commitment to promoting the sustainable development of southern Mexico.  The Letter of Intent will be valid for a period of three years.