December 22, 1998     

           Statement of FCC Chairman William Kennard
    Regarding U.S.-Mexico Mobile-Satellite Service Agreement
                                
                                
     I welcome the signing of this mobile-satellite service Protocol with Mexico.  The Protocol
will allow for the rapid expansion of opportunities for U.S. service providers to provide mobile-
satellite services throughout the U.S. and Mexico.  

     This will enable innovative new services such as low-earth orbit satellite systems to
operate in the U.S. and Mexico.   Consumers will benefit from the new opportunities and the
increase in competition.  

     Along with our Protocols with Mexico on direct-to-home services and fixed-satellite
services, this agreement demonstrates the close working relationship between the U.S. and
Mexican authorities and the commitment of both countries to promoting competitive satellite
markets.


                             - FCC -