The Secretary of State is one of six officials named in the Texas constitution who form the Executive Branch of the State's government. The Secretary is appointed by the Governor and confirmed by the Senate. The Secretary of State handles a wide range of duties imposed by Statute, Executive Order and the Texas Constitution. The Secretary of State serves as the Governor's liaison for Mexico and Border Affairs. As Chief International Protocol Officer for Texas, the Secretary of State receives international dignitaries and delegations on behalf of the Governor and the State of Texas.