The ties that bind us are stronger than the differences that set us apart, was the message from Gov. Rick Perry to Mexican President Vicente Fox during lunch.

The two told an invitation-only crowd at the Four Seasons on Thursday there is a bright future for relations between Texas and Mexico.

Perry and Fox stressed our common heritage and cultures.

And Perry proclaimed we live in a quote "borderless" marketplace. He also asked that Mexico keep up with its water payments owed under a water treaty.

Fox asked Texans to respect his people, protect their rights and help those living in the United States.