BORDER VIOLENCE - BINATIONAL COOPERATION REQUIRED

We've heard it many times: There must be cooperation between the
United States and Mexico in the fight against drug violence along the
border.

It was mentioned again last week at a border security conference by
Al PeA1a, Mexico attache for the U.S. Department of Homeland Security.

PeA1a, noting that violence in Mexico could put the United States at
risk, said, "It is imperative that together our governments confront
them with the full force of the law."

"Them," of course, refers to the drug cartels that are generating the
incredible violence in JuA!rez and other parts of Mexico. There's
increasing concern that this violence will spill over the border and,
of course, the first victims of spreading violence would be people in
border areas such as El Paso.

The House has approved $461.5 million in funding to fight drug crime
in Mexico and South America, and last week the Senate OK'd $450
million for that purpose. The two houses have to come up with a final
bill before sending it to President Bush for approval.

Bush has asked for $550 million.

Looking on the bright side, U.S. Ambassador to Mexico Tony Garza said
the funding approval "signaled congressional support for this
important measure to enhance ongoing U.S. programs for cooperating
and coordinating with the Mexican government."

It's important to note that over the years, the type of violence
being experienced in Mexico hasn't spilled over the border.

Binational cooperation is the best way to keep it like that.