U.S. and Mexican officials are making progress on an aid package to support a new offensive against the deadly illegal drug syndicates that threaten both nations. Since Mexican president Felipe Calderón’s victory just over one year ago, Mexican authorities have stepped up anti-drug efforts and paved the way for increased cooperation with the United States. The stakes are high for the United States, because we depend on Mexico as a cooperative neighbor and trade partner, and because most of the marijuana and 90 percent of the cocaine consumed in the United States pours over our southern border. If Mexico cannot make significant headway against the bloodthirsty cartels, the United States will suffer the consequences.

Certain elements of the aid package are taking shape: surveillance and eavesdropping equipment, radar for aerial interdiction, aircraft for anti-drug teams, and various training programs. But other elements of the plan are yet to be determined, and full support from Congress remains pending. What is essential for both countries is the need to construct a creative, well-funded plan that includes measures for increased law enforcement cooperation, legal reform, and judicial capacity-building.

On November 8, 2007, AEI will host leading scholars and policymakers to discuss the challenges ahead.