U.S. - Mexico Border: Issues and Challenges Confronting the United States and Mexico
Author: National Security and International Affairs Division
Date Published: 1999
The United States has pursued a strategy of developing closer relations with Mexico, in recognition that a stable, democratic, and prosperous Mexico is fundamental to U.S. interests. The border region, defined as the area 100 kilometers deep on either side of the almost 2000-mile long U.S.- Mexico border, s the bridge that binds the two countries. Thus, the border is critical to U.S. objectives. However, the U.S. border region has relatively high unemployment and poverty levels and faces a number of development challenges. And, while growing integration has increased trade between Mexico and the United States, it has exacerbated some long-standing border problems. At the same time, any U.S. efforts to interdict illicit drugs and illegal immigration take place on the border. As a result, there is a confluence of seemingly competing objectives at the border that have important implications for the United States.
Date Published: 1999
The United States has pursued a strategy of developing closer relations with Mexico, in recognition that a stable, democratic, and prosperous Mexico is fundamental to U.S. interests. The border region, defined as the area 100 kilometers deep on either side of the almost 2000-mile long U.S.- Mexico border, s the bridge that binds the two countries. Thus, the border is critical to U.S. objectives. However, the U.S. border region has relatively high unemployment and poverty levels and faces a number of development challenges. And, while growing integration has increased trade between Mexico and the United States, it has exacerbated some long-standing border problems. At the same time, any U.S. efforts to interdict illicit drugs and illegal immigration take place on the border. As a result, there is a confluence of seemingly competing objectives at the border that have important implications for the United States.
