Senator McCain in South America

It is exactly trade and not international charity that will contribute to the economic development of the countries of Latin America.

A few days ago Senator McCain concluded what many analysts considered a risky trip, judging from domestic policies, to Latin America. In particular he visited Mexico and Colombia, two countries of great importance to the United States, as much in matters of security as in matters of trade, but that also generate great controversy on the topics of immigration and human rights.

The Republican candidate made it very clear that the principal objective of the visit was to strengthen ties with two key countries for the United States, while at the same time supporting the fight against insecurity and drug trafficking, and the consolidation of free trade.

Faced with a growing wave of protectionism in the United States in regards to the trade and the migration issue, McCain is showing leadership in these topics, opposing a position of Senator Obama dominated by the Labor Union wing of his party that leans more against the expansion of trade in other countries.

Obama demonstrated it when he voted against CAFTA and most recently against the agreement with Colombia.

Much is said about the relationship between the United States and Latin America. On one side, some allege that the U.S. doesn’t have a plan for the region; on the other, that the United States involves itself too much. Senator McCain visited the region, indicating that for him, the expansion of trade is the best way to develop a reciprocally beneficial economic relationship, to cooperate.

It is exactly economic exchange and generation of employment that is the greater source of prosperity between countries, not foreign donations.

If history is any indicator, it has been seen that economic aid isn’t the best way of promoting economic growth.

In fact, the Bush administration has increased foreign aid to 1.6 billion dollars each year, while the populist anti-American governments arose in South America. During the trip, McCain has strengthened his commitment to the security of the region, and the fight against terrorism and drug trafficking.

Senator Obama, in a recent speech with the Cuban-American foundation, has indicated the necessity of restraining free trade treaties and increasing aid in the region as an effective way of promoting development.

Perhaps the best policy would be one of a responsible dialogue, based on strong and fluid trade, and favorable security strategies for the continent. Prosperity and democracy in Latin America depend on its own people as a last resort. McCain seems to understand this. Obama doesn’t.