In Mexico, Obama Vows Immigration Reform

May 3rd, 2013 (VOA) U.S. President Barack Obama has vowed to reform the U.S. immigration system, which he says does not currently reflect American values and causes some people to “live in the shadows.”
Obama spoke to a group of mostly students Friday at Mexico’s National Anthropology Museum in Mexico City. He noted the young people there were “the dream” that would help shape Mexico’s future with their spirit and their willingness to change things that no longer work.

Obama said the U.S. and Mexico were “two equal partners,” adding that distortions in both countries have created misunderstandings he hopes will be corrected. He said a “new Mexico is emerging” with a robust civil society and political parties that compete vigorously but also transfer power peacefully.

The president also plans to meet privately with a group of Mexican businessmen while visiting the nation.

Later Friday, the president will travel to Costa Rica, where he plans to meet with Costa Rican President Laura Chinchilla to discuss bilateral issues ahead of Saturday’s Central American Forum on Sustainable Economic Development.

On Thursday in Mexico City, President Obama said the U.S.-Mexican border is more secure now than it has been in years, but that more needs to be done.

Obama held talks in Mexico City with new Mexican President Enrique Pena Nieto. The U.S. leader said immigration and security matters constantly overshadow the Mexican and American economies and bog down business relations.

He said the United States is working on common sense immigration reform and is determined to cut the demand for illegal drugs, which contributes to much violence along the shared border.

Obama said U.S. security relations with Mexico will evolve as President Pena Nieto decides how to reform the security structures of his country.

Mexico is one of the largest customers for U.S. goods. President Obama said clearing the way for more jobs and trade is the focus of his visit.

Some information for this report was provided by AP, AFP and Reuters.