FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE              NEWS MEDIA CONTACT
July 26, 2000                           Maureen Peratino 202-418-0506
                                   


                                
         STATEMENT OF FCC CHAIRMAN WILLIAM E. KENNARD 
            REGARDING MEXICO DARS AGREEMENT SIGNING

This agreement, which reflects over two years of very hard work, will enable satellite
digital audio radio services (DARS) and terrestrial wireless services to operate freely in the border
area between Mexico and the United States.  

It is critical to the long-term viability of DARS, WCS and other communications systems
in both countries.  The interference concerns presented were challenging, and staff and industry
from both countries are to be commended for forging this agreement despite the many obstacles.
     .

                            - FCC -