698

The United Mexican States and the Republic of Guatemala taking into account the studies of the border area being made by the International Boundary and Water Com mission and its advisory groups, have decided to conclude an agreement on the protection and improvement of the environment and conservation of the natural resources in the border areas on the basis of equality, reciprocity and mutual benefit. The two Contracting Parties undertake to adopt measures to prevent, reduce and eliminate in their territory sources of pollution, which affect the border area. For the purposes of the Agreement the Parties shall: (a) take all necessary measures for the c onservation of protected natural zones; (b) promote the protection of threatened or endangered species; (c) coordinate the cooperation of local communities to prevent illicit trade in threatened or endangered plant and animal species. The national authorities responsible for supervising the implementation of this Agreement shall be for Mexico the Department of Urban Development and Environment, and for Guatemala the Ministry of Foreign Affairs.; FAO Descriptors: 110; 247; 208; 209; 710 110; 247; 208; 209; 021110; 247; 208; 021; 710; 563; 066; TFDD Basin: BAS-FAOC015100BAS-FAOC015112BAS-FAOC015163BAS -FAOC015319BAS-FAOC015338;