As Latin America grows, the United States benefits. There is a broader strategic logic behind my belief that continued U.S. vitality is linked to the success of its hemispheric neighbors. In the 19th century, many strong countries wanted weak neighbors that they could dominate. In the 21st century, strong countries will benefit from healthy, prosperous, and confident democratic neighbors. Troubled neighbors export problems like illegal immigration, environmental damage, crime, narcotics, and violence.
Healthy neighbors create stronger regions through economic integration and political cooperation.
If the Americas are strong, the United States will be better positioned to pursue its aims around the world. But if our hemisphere is troubled, we will be preoccupied at home and handicapped abroad. For all the progress in Latin America over the past decade, many elected governments throughout the region are still struggling to show results for their citizens. Too many are not meeting basic needs for health and safety. Only one in three Latin American children attends secondary school.