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Fox Sees Bright Future for Mexico
49 segments available
Americans are mostly unaware of the enormous progress Mexico has enjoyed since a devastating collapse in the peso in 1994. Former Mexican President Vicente Fox highlights the opportunities for his country to foster democracy, develop entrepreneurism, and promote alternative sources of energy as it emerges as a world economic power. He also addresses Mexico's many challenges, including its poor educational system, rapid population growth, and dwindling oil reserves. Recorded: March 4, 2008
Segments Timeline
From Academia to Politics
Vicente Fox reflects on his transition from academia to politics, sharing insights on the challenges and expectations faced by leaders in Latin America. He emphasizes the importance of democracy and the urgency for economic development in Mexico, highlighting the impatience of citizens for tangible results after gaining democratic freedoms.
"I've discovered that it's live after the presidency two evidence president folks and I it's a great privilege to be part of uh the Freedman spok Institute and the center forward democracy development ..."
The Legacy of President Fox
Fox discusses the significant achievements of his presidency, particularly in stabilizing Mexico's economy and promoting democratic governance. He notes the historical context of his election against a backdrop of authoritarianism and reflects on the expectations placed on leaders by the public, emphasizing the need for responsible governance.
"present one of my colleagues my friends Mara viente Fox we both coincide our presidential terms he had one more year he's six I'm just five years in a term of office and so we have a consolate each ot..."
A New Trend in Latin America
Fox highlights a shift in Latin America where former presidents remain active in public life, contributing to their nations post-presidency. He contrasts this with the previous culture of silence and retirement among leaders, celebrating the new dynamism and engagement of former presidents in addressing regional challenges.
"it was a president that also paid the price of a responsible management of the economy it was the president who was able to handle the economy at the same time to take care of the social turmoil that ..."
Call for Peace and Unity
Fox addresses the ongoing conflicts in Latin America, particularly between Colombia, Venezuela, and Ecuador. He calls for peace, dialogue, and cooperation among nations to combat terrorism and organized crime, emphasizing the need for a united front to tackle these pressing issues.
"culture um after those 72 years of the pre that former presidents most retire must keep quiet or run away to cover their Fortune through their corruption acts but things are are changing uh me meos ve..."
The 21st Century: A New Era for Latin America
Fox asserts that the 21st century is poised to be a transformative period for Latin America, reflecting on the historical struggles of the previous century. He discusses the importance of democratic consolidation and economic reforms that have led to growth and poverty reduction in the region.
"unfortunate that that is happening today but we must see the center of the problem the center of the problem is that there is Gara there in Colombia has been there for over 40 years and that nation ha..."
Economic Growth and Poverty Reduction
Fox presents statistics showing significant economic growth in Latin America, particularly in Mexico, where per capita income has increased and poverty rates have decreased. He emphasizes the role of sound economic policies and responsible governance in achieving these improvements.
"America and I will question myself why this happened and I think the answer is easy to attain we spend most of the century our Nations spent most of the century in hands of dictators military dictator..."
Forecasting Mexico's Economic Future
Fox discusses projections for Mexico's economy, predicting it will become one of the largest economies by 2040. He stresses the importance of consistent efforts and strategic planning to achieve this goal, alongside addressing challenges such as poverty and income distribution.
"results why I say this because the statistics show that today Latin America is back to rates of growth of over 5% close to 6% as a region and that's a good pace of growth but more important than growi..."
The Importance of Sustaining Democracy
Fox concludes by emphasizing the need to nurture and sustain democracy in Latin America. He warns against the rise of populism and the importance of teaching citizens how to empower themselves rather than relying on handouts, advocating for a balanced approach to governance that includes social responsibility.
"together with Brazil we're both about the same size of economy and all of Latin America will have this opportunity of growing and expanding of reducing poverty and improving distribution of income but..."
Building Economies with Social Responsibility
Fox emphasizes the necessity of a sound market economy paired with social responsibility to foster growth in Latin America. He discusses the importance of fiscal discipline, transparency, and accountability in economic development, advocating for policies that ensure equitable participation in economic growth.
"democracies we're guaranteeing freedom to all people and this will give us the basic the fundamentals to develop our economies to develop our per capita income to develop human capital and to work on ..."
Education as a Key to Economic Success
Fox argues that education is crucial for solving economic challenges in Latin America. He highlights the need for a robust scholarship system to keep children in school and stresses the importance of quality education and evaluation to ensure progress and competitiveness on a global scale.
"economy by promoting entrepreneurship promoting this marvelous small world of little changar of little businesses which is the best way to democratize the economy and to bring in opportunities to ever..."
Social Safety Nets and Housing Programs
In this segment, Fox outlines the need for strong social safety nets, housing programs, and healthcare systems in Latin America. He identifies these as essential components for improving the quality of life and addressing the economic disparities faced by many in the region.
"that they will then bring in a real solution to the problems of that family so we need to add to the public school system in our Nations a very strong scholarship system where we guarantee that all ki..."
Emerging Leadership for a New Era
Fox calls for new leadership in Latin America, emphasizing the importance of values, commitment, and a focus on long-term solutions rather than short-term political gains. He advocates for leaders who are educated and dedicated to building a better future for the region.
"uh very solid development of uh income sources to people and again it's a big big challenge that we have in Latin America on this area finally uh to say that Latin America needs new leadership new lea..."
Bridging North and South America
Fox discusses the need for unity and collaboration between North and South America, emphasizing the importance of building bridges rather than walls. He highlights the potential of Latin American talent abroad to contribute to the region's development and addresses the importance of fostering understanding and compassion.
"America today only 22% of kids of young persons in Latin America have the opportunity you have here in this University or here in this nation so four out of five kids in Latin America move out of a sc..."
The Presidential Library Initiative
Fox introduces the initiative to build a Presidential Library in Mexico, aimed at fostering connections between developed and developing nations. He describes it as a bridge for technology, education, and research, inviting collaboration among former leaders to implement a democratic and social agenda for Latin America.
"back to our Nations there are many many Latin Americans all over the world president Toledo frequently speaks about this this diaspora this all over the world and specifically here in the United State..."
The Importance of Implementing Ideas
In this concluding segment, Fox reflects on the necessity of turning ideas into action, emphasizing that leadership must focus on making the American dream a reality for all nations. He expresses gratitude for the opportunity to share his vision and opens the floor for questions, inviting dialogue on the challenges facing Latin America.
"knowledge it's a challenge that is being built right there in wanu and any of you that will be visiting Mexico soon and if you don't have plans to do so please try to program a trip there we will love..."
The Role of Multilateralism
Vicente Fox emphasizes the importance of multilateralism and the role of global institutions like the United Nations and the Organization of American States in fostering dialogue and problem-solving. He advocates for immediate involvement from these institutions to address pressing issues, highlighting the need for cooperation among nations to tackle challenges such as terrorism.
"have their mission they have their obligations we see pretty frequently this vacuum I'm also speaking about the United Nations and other Global or Regional institutions part of the problem is that the..."
Shared Responsibility in Drug Trafficking
Fox discusses the shared responsibility between Mexico and the United States in combating drug trafficking and violence associated with drug cartels. He explains that both nations must address the consumption, production, and distribution of drugs, emphasizing that Mexico is not solely to blame for the drug crisis but is actively working to combat it.
"also hear many voices of different leaders in Latin America and different nations willing willing to participate to promote dialogue and solutions that's the Democratic way of approaching uh I think i..."
The War on Drugs in Mexico
Vicente Fox reflects on the ongoing war against drug cartels in Mexico, praising the efforts of his successor, Felipe Calderón. He expresses confidence in Calderón's leadership and commitment to defeating organized crime, while also acknowledging the severe consequences of this conflict on Mexican society.
"issues that are shared responsibility between our Nations and we have to look at both ends the consumption and the production of drugs as well as the distribution and the moving of the drug in between..."
Stability and Economic Growth
Fox highlights the economic stability Mexico has achieved since the 1994 crisis, noting significant improvements in poverty reduction and income growth. He discusses the importance of maintaining this stability to ensure continued economic progress and the potential for Mexico to become a leading economy in the region.
"drugs and the question is once the drug crosses the Border who moves it who takes it to New York to Chicago to Seattle to San Francisco or to everywhere else in the United States and this is not a cas..."
The Importance of Education and Middle Class
In this segment, Fox stresses the need for education and the development of a robust middle class as antidotes to populism and demagoguery in Latin America. He argues that empowering citizens through education and economic opportunities is crucial for sustainable growth and democracy.
"that President Calderone is looking for so at the very end I'm sure I'm absolutely sure and convinced that pretty soon will see this problem under control in Mexico and that hopefully drug consumption..."
Microfinance as a Tool for Development
Fox discusses the potential of microfinance to support small businesses and entrepreneurship in Mexico. He highlights the importance of financial inclusion and the need for a supportive legal framework to harness the energy of the informal economy, which comprises millions of hardworking individuals.
"growth well first a word about stability I already mentioned uh that was the last Mammoth crisis that we had in Mexico back in 1994 in December where every family in Mexico lost well over half of thei..."
Mexico's Trade Balance and Economic Partnership
Vicente Fox outlines Mexico's significant trade balance with the United States, emphasizing the economic interdependence between the two nations. He argues that Mexico's growth benefits the U.S. economy and counters negative perceptions about immigration and trade.
"poverty if it has been able to increase income per cap capital income from $35 us up to more than $8,000 us if it has been able to move from the seventh largest or highest per capita income in Latin A..."
Empowering Women for Economic Progress
In this segment, Fox advocates for gender equity as a key component of economic development in Latin America. He emphasizes the need to empower women and integrate them into leadership roles to drive prosperity and social change in the region.
"thing that we want to construct now the the antidoto how do you say antidoto antidoto good well the antidoto the antidot against demagogy against populism it's education and it is information and it i..."
Harnessing Mexico's Entrepreneurial Spirit
Vicente Fox discusses the significant role of entrepreneurship in Mexico's economy, highlighting that out of 48 million workers, a substantial portion operates in the underground economy. He emphasizes the importance of recognizing and supporting these entrepreneurs, as they contribute to the nation's economic vitality despite lacking formal employment.
"tools to defeat poverty to dignify women and persons all over the world and it's a key strategy figures in Mexico 48 million people wake up every day to go to work every day 48 million out of the 105 ..."
Banking on the Unbanked
Fox reflects on the transformation of Mexico's financial system, noting that when he took office, only 30% of the population was bankable. He shares that this figure has now risen to over 80%, which is crucial for fostering a successful democratic economy and empowering citizens through access to financial services.
"economy but those who claim for that have never brought an answer to the problem where are this 30 million going to work I don't think that they will ever ever get a job in a formal corporation uh tho..."
The Importance of a Safety Net
In this segment, Vicente Fox stresses the need for a comprehensive safety net in Mexico, including healthcare, housing, and education. He argues that these elements are essential for supporting the burgeoning entrepreneurial spirit and ensuring that all citizens can thrive in a democratic economy.
"working building a successful Democratic economy through this entrepreneurship and through this massive energy that our countries have we have to do it orderly we have to bring in a legal framework fo..."
Navigating Electoral Challenges
Fox addresses the complexities of Mexico's electoral processes, particularly following the contentious 2006 election. He discusses the challenges faced by democratic institutions in ensuring fair elections and the importance of maintaining public trust in the electoral system amidst political disputes.
"only asked this question because two years ago um I was a volunteer with an NGO in San Francisco Deon in guano and that was summer 2006 and since there's a question earlier about elections and stabili..."
Strengthening Democratic Institutions
In this segment, Vicente Fox highlights the resilience of Mexico's democratic institutions during political challenges. He reflects on the importance of these institutions in maintaining stability and fairness in elections, emphasizing their role in upholding democracy in the face of opposition.
"that Alo he claims that he's very Democratic at the very end he doesn't like any results against his cause of his participating and he challenged every institution in Mexico during that year he challe..."
The Urgency of Reform
Fox discusses the pressing need for reforms in Mexico, particularly in the energy and tax sectors. He emphasizes that without significant changes, Mexico risks falling behind in global competitiveness and highlights the importance of private investment in driving these reforms.
"the president today does not have anything to do or intervene in the electoral process in Mexico if I would have done what President Bush did this morning I would have been accused by everybody of bei..."
Lessons from Global Integration
Vicente Fox draws parallels between Mexico's economic integration through NAFTA and the success of the European Union. He argues for a new vision of integration that benefits all parties involved, particularly focusing on the lessons learned from Europe’s post-war recovery and economic collaboration.
"which is Felipe Calderon and another person saying that he is also the president and but again the the key factor is that our institutions proved to have the capacity to handle very difficult situatio..."
The Impact of NAFTA on Agriculture
In this segment, Fox evaluates the effects of NAFTA on Mexico's agricultural sector, noting the trade surplus with the U.S. while also addressing the challenges faced by local farmers. He discusses the need for fair trade practices and the importance of supporting farmers in adapting to changing market conditions.
"the product are and uh since then all this NAFTA is where all Mexicans and Latin Americans are coming to the US in the last 10 years what technically should now because the na is not going to change C..."
Energy Policy and Food Security
Fox raises concerns about the trade-offs between energy production and food security, particularly regarding the use of corn for biofuels. He questions the long-term viability of this approach and advocates for the development of alternative energy sources that do not compromise food supplies.
"25,000 up to 40,000 the case of Ireland so working together in together integrating with sound values uh into that integration works and works well same as NAFTA has worked now today Mexico has a stro..."
Brazil's Energy Strategy
Vicente Fox highlights Brazil's successful energy policies, particularly its focus on diversifying energy sources beyond food products. He discusses the positive impact of these strategies on job creation in rural areas and suggests that Mexico could learn from Brazil's approach to energy and economic development.
"they have had historically but I still question myself if it is a good tradeoff to trade food for energy when I think that we should be developing alternative sources of energy not derived from food b..."
The Challenge of Energy Reform
In this segment, Fox reflects on the challenges faced by his administration and the current government in implementing necessary energy reforms. He emphasizes the urgency of these reforms for Mexico's future and the need for a balanced approach that includes both public and private investment.
"of view I'm not sure if it's going to be so wise of a decision in the long long term uh in the Cas of energy gentl that's when you ask your question you pass okay me Mr President it's an honor to have..."
Tax Reform Challenges in Mexico
Vicente Fox discusses the urgent need for tax reform in Mexico, highlighting that the country's income tax is only 11% of its gross product, one of the lowest in the world. He contrasts this with higher rates in the United States and Europe, emphasizing the reliance on oil income to support a weak tax system and the necessity for reforms under President Calderón.
"he came through with the tax reform not as much as needed because in Mexico uh income tax or tax derived from income from income derived from taxes is only 11% of gross product that's one of the lowes..."
The Urgency of Energy Reform
Fox stresses the critical need for energy reform in Mexico, questioning the political timing for such changes. He points out that other nations have successfully integrated private investment in their energy sectors, and warns that without reform, Mexico will face a future with insufficient oil reserves to meet its needs.
"that's why we're milking the cow of oil that's why Mexico uses the income of oil to support its very poor very weak uh tax uh system so we do have a a problem there uh the difference here is that Cald..."
Investment vs. Government Spending
In this segment, Fox critiques the opposition's proposal for the government to invest more in the oil industry, arguing that Mexico lacks the financial resources to do so. He emphasizes the need for strategic investment in education and infrastructure rather than solely focusing on oil drilling.
"comes with this reforms and I mean listening to manio Fabio Von just a week ago saying that is not the right time the right political time for our reform in energy in Mexico I question him when is the..."
Learning from Latin America's Oil Strategies
Fox compares Mexico's oil company, PEMEX, with Brazil's Petrobras, highlighting the importance of transparency and accountability in management. He advocates for a balanced approach to public and private investment in the oil sector to ensure sustainable growth and development.
"Bolivia you name it and everybody is on sort of an association a strategic association between public and private investment I'm not for or privatizing pay absolutely not and much less I would be in f..."
Population Growth and Economic Strain
Fox addresses the challenges posed by Mexico's rapid population growth, noting that the country is growing at a rate of 3.5% annually. He warns that this growth rate is unsustainable and will strain the economy, making it difficult to provide jobs and resources for the population.
"industry and that's what they are after authorizing Mexican government to invest more on oil where the hell is Mexican government going to get the money to invest in oil what these people don't see is..."
The Historical Context of Migration
In this segment, Fox reflects on the historical context of migration from Mexico, emphasizing that it is a long-standing issue driven by the desire for better opportunities. He acknowledges the challenges faced by migrants and the need for Mexico to create conditions that encourage people to stay.
"put it on the market they rest the money to invest for years and years and then they went a little bit further they have not lost the sovereignity the property on the oil resource and on the contrary ..."
Economic Disparities and Migration
Fox discusses the economic disparities between Mexico and the United States, highlighting the significant income gap that drives migration. He argues that many Mexicans migrate not out of preference but necessity, seeking better wages and living conditions.
"problems hello my name is Anna Diaz Hernandez and I am actually a citizen of Mexico I've been living here for the past eight years but um as a victim of the brain drain from Mexico I was wondering kin..."
The Role of Migration in Economic Growth
Fox emphasizes the importance of migration as a natural human instinct for self-improvement. He argues that migrants contribute significantly to the economies they join and that Mexico must create more opportunities to retain its citizens.
"have that econom is pry difficult that he can do that but yes we learn the hard way and now on instead of growing a three and a half% Mexico is growing at less than 1% and as a matter of fact Mexican ..."
Reflections on Past Leadership
Fox reflects on Mexico's past leadership and the lost opportunities for economic growth during periods of authoritarian rule. He stresses the importance of investing oil revenues in education and infrastructure to build a stronger economy.
"have people to share with other nations still it's very important to keep open the opportunity for any person that has aspirations that want to migrate that wants to move somewhere else there's hundre..."
Investing Oil Money Wisely
In this segment, Fox critiques the mismanagement of oil revenues in Venezuela, advocating for the strategic investment of such funds in national development. He warns against the pitfalls of populist policies that neglect long-term economic planning.
"he told Mak wait wait wait a second wait a second we have to change we have to move to another Mar and he said let's take a left turn and he took Mexico all the way to the left when a very populist uh..."
Addressing Immigration Issues
Fox addresses the complex issue of immigration, acknowledging the historical context and the economic factors driving migration. He emphasizes the need for a balanced approach to immigration policy that recognizes the contributions of migrants to society.
"problem and he's not part of the solution president folks I'm not a silly Martinez a reporter for La opinion is a Hispanic newspaper in laate um no one can Deni all the accomplishment that you could g..."
The Migration Debate: Jobs and Reality
Vicente Fox addresses the complex issue of migration, emphasizing that many migrants are driven by economic opportunities. He highlights the significant income disparity between Mexico and the U.S., explaining that workers migrate for better job prospects. Fox argues that the narrative around migrants often overlooks their contributions to the economy and stresses the need for a rational approach to immigration policy based on supply and demand.
"citizens move out you should question them what are they doing in China what are they doing in Mexico what are they doing in Europe what are they doing everywhere because they want better another good..."
Fear and Xenophobia in Immigration Policy
Fox discusses the impact of fear on U.S. immigration policy, particularly post-September 11. He criticizes the xenophobic rhetoric that dominates the debate and calls for a more humane and rational framework for immigration that respects human rights. He urges Congress to take decisive action to create a fair immigration system that benefits both the U.S. and Mexico.
"work and this economy needs 500,000 additional jobs every year additional jobs it's not my figures these are US Government institutions in United States that's what this economy needs to keep moving s..."
The Value of Immigrants to American Society
In this segment, Fox passionately defends the contributions of Mexican immigrants to American society. He highlights their hard work, loyalty, and the essential roles they play in various sectors, including construction and service industries. Fox argues that immigrants enhance the quality of life in the U.S. and calls for reforms that recognize their value and ensure fair treatment.
"finally I mean building a wall I mean who was the smart guy building a wall I mean when we all remember President Reagan right in front of the Berlin Wall Mr garbacho tear off this wall and now we're ..."
A Call to Latin American Youth
Fox delivers an inspiring message to Latin American youth, urging them to return to their home countries and contribute to their development. He emphasizes the potential of Latin America over the next 15-20 years and encourages young people to embrace their cultural identity while working towards progress in their nations. Fox's call is a reminder of the importance of human capital in shaping the future of Latin America.
"know what you do for our people here and how you support them and uh I pledge you to keep on doing that and to keep demanding good treatment for them to keep demanding for them their social security a..."