Speech #1020038428

I also believe we must move toward a more open trade policy with Mexico for national security reasons. A nation on our border in economic and political turmoil is not in our best interest. If we are to stem the tide of illegal immigration. we must cooperate with the Mexican Government in creating a better economic environment for those seeking opportunity in that country. I am convinced that a North American FreeTrade Agreement could contribute to needed improvements in both the Mexican and the United States economy. I recognize that there has been a great deal of concern expressed about the effect of a freetrade agreement with Mexico on United States jobs and on the environment along the United StatesMexican border.