Obama’s stops in Mexico and Costa Rica marked his first visit to Latin America since winning re-election.
President Barack Obama returns to the White House from a trip to Costa Rica and Mexico. SAN JOSE, Costa Rica – President Barack Obama’s trip to Latin America had a decidedly domestic feel, with issues such as immigration, energy and education that are in the forefront of U.S. political debate also dominating his talks with regional leaders.
The shared priorities show how closely entwined the U.S. is with its southern neighbors. These ties stem not only from geography, but also from the growing number of Hispanics living in the United States – and their rapidly increasing political power.
“The United States recognizes our fates are tied up with your success,” Obama said Saturday during an economic forum in San Jose, the Costa Rican capital where he wrapped up his three-day trip.
“If you are doing well, we will do better. And if we are doing well, we think your situation improves,” he said.
Obama’s stops in Mexico and Costa Rica marked his first visit to Latin America since winning re-election last November. His second-term victory resulted in part from the overwhelming support he received from Hispanic voters.
The election results have led Republicans to reconsider their opposition to overhauling