 SENATE FOREIGN RELATIONS COMMITTEE MEETS IN MEXICO
This week Senator Jesse Helms (R-NC), chairman of the Senate Foreign Relations Committee, made a historic visit to Mexico. While it is not unusual for US Senators to visit Mexico, as a number have this year, Helms is one of Mexico’s most vociferous critics. He has long criticized the Mexican government for failing to address undocumented immigration and drug smuggling and has also denounced it for its ties to Cuba. Helms, along with Sens. Joseph Biden (D-DE), Chuck Hagel (R-NE), Christopher Dodd (D-CT), Lincoln Chafee (R-RI), and John Ensign (R-NE), the other members of the Foreign Relations Committee, met with their Mexican counterparts to discuss a number of issues, including immigration. According to a spokesperson for the Committee, it is the first time it has even met outside of the US.
The election of Vicente Fox, which ended 71 years of rule by the Institutional Revolutionary Party (PRI), appears to have altered Helms attitude toward Mexico. However, the trip is made more unusual by the fact that Helms recently had a heated exchange with Mexican Foreign Minister Jorge Casteneda. Helms now seems to have embraced Castaneda, who he once criticized as too far to the left.
Analysts also point to the growing realization in all circles that Mexican workers are an essential element in the success of the US economy. Also present is the Bush Administration’s clear intent to make relations with Mexico a priority. Others point to the rapidly changing face of North Carolina, the state Helms has represented in the Senate for 30 years. The 2000 Census showed substantial increases in the Hispanic population of North Carolina. If the 79-year-old Senator chooses to run for reelection in 2002, he will have to address this growing constituency. While in Mexico, Helms said that he hoped his visit would “help solidify the emerging friendship between our two governments.”
Immigration was a major topic of discussion. According to Sen. Biden, the two countries are “close to being able to reach an accommodation.” Casteneda outlined a proposal for a guest worker program that appeared to have substantial support among the Senators. He also assured them the Mexico would begin cracking down on migration through Mexico to the US. Helms said that while the US was prepared to enter into a dialogue on immigration issues, no short-term solution is possible.
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