EL PASO, Texas — Improving the balance between security and trade along the U.S.-Mexico border, including much better communication, is essential for both countries to focus on and solve the huge problems of arms and drug trafficking.
“Mexico and the U.S. will have to work together to maintain security and help trade. It will take both countries to give important information to one another,” said newly appointed Commissioner of U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP), Alan Bersin. Right now there is not enough trust or confidence on either side of the border, he said.
Newly appointed Commissioner of U.S. Customs and Border Protection, Alan Bersin (left) talking to the press. (Alexis Sinforoso/Borderzine.com)
These are essentially the two basic ingredients that Secretary Janet Napolitano and President Obama have included in a new vision for the U.S.-Mexico border. The plan also includes allowing more freedom for authorities from both governments to move across the points of entry to quell the flow of arms and drug traffic. New technology will be incorporated into the project to maintain records and make trade more accessible.
“It is important to understand, propagate and maintain this new vision into everyday life. That way we will get it and the results will be successful,” said U.S. Representative Silvestre Reyes.
Trade and travel are important elements that will be taken into consideration in the more than $11 billion operating budget for this new policy. The new plan will facilitate the movement of people who must transit the border every day, especially students. Other pedestrian and vehicular traffic also will be eased if security is not affected.
“I love the border and the Southwest too. Let us be the leaders in this new vision. Let UTEP be the leader too,” said Bersin.
