Speech #990183148

Although Government austerity measures have sought. with some success. to trim public spending in recent years. the collapse of oil prices has brought new concerns to those viewing the Mexican economic sceneoil revenues reportedly represent some 40 percent of Government revenues. Coupled with the catastrophic earthquake that shook Mexico City in September 1985. Mexicos problems persist. The continuing economic difficulties confronting Mexico cannot but have an effect on other aspects of the United StatesMexico relationship. Illegal immigration across our southern border will continue as long as Mexicos economic predicament exists. Some Mexicans will be tempted by the lure of the drug trade as long as participation in Mexicos economic expansion remains out of reach to them. Likewise. corruption. which seems to find a role wherever difficult economic circumstances are encountered. will continue until Mexicos economic house is fully in order.