Gov. Bill Richardson and several Mexican officials signed various international agreements Wednesday, on topics dealing with rail crossings to border health projects.

As part of the agreements, the Chihuahua state government has committed to establishing better public health services along the border, including better influenza treatment and tuberculosis screening. It will also expand health services along the border, and in particular in Palomas, across the border from Columbus, N.M.

In addition, New Mexico and Chihuahua will work together on an international rail crossing at Santa Teresa, N.M., and Jerónimo, Mexico, an ongoing project. A committee will be formed to look into needed permits for the rail, which is expected to alleviate congestion in nearby El Paso and Ciudad Juárez.

The governor also signed an agreement promoting cross-cultural education and a science partnership that will focus on joint studies in the areas of aerospace, energy and water, among other things.

Richardson's office also announced Wednesday an agreement for direct air service between Albuquerque and Chihuahua City.

The governor remains in Mexico through today. He is scheduled to speak at the 66th annual U.S.-Mexico Border Health Association Conference and meet with the governor of Sonora state, Eduardo Bours.

Contact Kate Nash at 986-3036 or knash@sfnewmexican.com. Read her blog, Green Chile Chatter, at www.sfnewmexican.com.