Thread: Former Mexican president makes case for hemispheric hope

Although this article is two months old, I could not find that it had been previously posted. I find it interesting that he continues to travel the U.S. giving speeches referring to "the Future of the Americas."


Vicente Fox Stays Connected with U.S., Mexico and Latin America

Former Mexican president makes case for hemispheric hope while outlining importance of immigration, globalization and free trade


In his speech Friday at the fifth annual Westmont President’s Breakfast, former Mexican President Vicente Fox cited the Westmont in Mexico program as an important example of bridge building between Mexico and the United States. (Brad Elliott photo / www.elliottimages.com)

By William M. Macfadyen
Noozhawk.com
02.19.2010


Retired from politics for nearly four years, former Mexican President Vicente Fox remains an imposing figure in Mexico. His 2000 election ended the iron-fisted, 71-year rule of the Institutional Revolutionary Party.

The tall, trim rancher and former CEO of Coca-Cola Mexico was a towering presence Friday morning at the fifth annual Westmont President’s Breakfast. Surprisingly soft-spoken and modest for such a charismatic and historic leader, Fox kept the nearly 800 guests at rapt attention as he strolled the stage and spoke without notes for nearly 40 minutes at Fess Parker’s DoubleTree Resort.


Westmont President Gayle Beebe and former Mexican President Vicente Fox share a photo opportunity at the podium. (Brad Elliott photo / www.elliottimages.com)

Fox used his speech — titled “The Future of the Americas: Immigration, Globalization and Free Tradeâ€

[quote]Fox said the United States, Canada and Mexico — the three partners in the North American Free Trade Agreement, or NAFTA — must work together or risk losing more jobs to Asia. “We must have performance with purpose,â€

[quote]“I don’t understand why this nation is building walls,â€

[quote]“We hope to grow, to branch out and to recuperate,â€

[quote]He said he has seen a ripple effect as the United States has stiffened its trafficking enforcement. “By restraining the drug trade here, the cartels turn to Mexico to distribute their drugs,â€

I think that Mexico has ben able to foist off it's underemployed lowest class onto this country for profit. Remittances are second only to oil income revenue for Mexico.

He can say all the pretty little words of peace, love and brotherhood, but the American citizens that are dealing with it day in and day out are fed up.