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 19 th century, many strong countries wanted weak neighbors that they could dominate. In the 21 st 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. My message to Chile, and to all of the other Latin American nations, is that the United States is prepared to work closely with you. But our partnership should reach beyond just trade. We should work together to address common concerns, spanning from the environment to education to criminal justice.