UStream is livecasting the Obama/Calderón press conference.
3:15 Pres. Calderón talks about our common goals. He is giving his speech both in Spanish and English. “To build this common future, Mexico is doing its part.” He mentions democracy, structural changes to improve the economy and inequality.
3:20: Calderón continues, “President Obama, let’s start a new era, an example in productivity and security. Mexico needs American investment as the US needs Mexican labor force.”…”A new era where the fight against organized crime will be fully embraced with a share responsibility, and that we shall win as allies.”…”A new era of comprehensive immigration reform.” He also addresses climate change and the environment. “Mr President, let’s build a new era. Yes we can. Welcome to Mexico.”
3:25PM Pres. Obama’s words are translated through an interpreter.
“There is a reason why the first visit I received from a head of state was from Mr. Calderon. It was a reminder, as Pres. Kennedy said, that the ties that join us can not be broken.”… “All across the US we have benefited from the culture, the language, the food, the people from south of the border. My hope is that the US has offered to Mexico as well.”
3:30PM: Obama touches on the financial crisis: “It is important we work together to restore growth to Mexico and the US but so that every young person will benefit.” Obama on the drug cartels: “It is absolutely critical that we join in our efforts, the flow of weapons and capital.” Common security and common prosperity as goals, following up on the G20, climate change, fight on poverty, and fighting terrorism. “It is wonderfully fitting to see the children of Mexico as well as the children of the US waving flags of our countries because we are reminded that the reason for bilateral relationships is our children.”
Pres. Obama arrived in Mexico in the middle of strictest security measures. Mexico City’s International Airport was shut down for AF1’s landing, and he was flown by Marine1 to the Los Pinos official residence where the press conference is taking place.
3:40PM Reviewing the Honor Guard. There was no Q&A session following the speeches.
This evening Pres. and Mrs. Calderón will host a gala dinner for Pres. and Mrs. Obama at the Museo Nacional de Antropología e Historia (National Museum of History and Anthropology). The metro line serving the area has been shut down until tomorrow at noon.
UPDATE, Friday 17 April
Full news conference transcript of Presidents Obama and Calderon that took place later in the afternoon.
