RE-EXAMINE CERTIFICATION

Timing Is Right, With New Presidents In U.S. And Mexico

Bipartisan support from U.S. and Mexican officials appears to be urging
changes in the drug-certification process for Mexico. And with two new
presidents, it's an opportune time to reevaluate the certification process
and consider reforms where necessary.

"Certification" is a process through which the U.S. State Department
reviews Mexico's drug-fighting efforts each year. Economic sanctions can be
imposed if the U.S. determines Mexico's drug-fighting effort is inadequate.

Every year, the process creates tensions between the two countries, with
Mexico objecting to it and some U.S. officials, including U.S. Rep.
Silvestre Reyes, suggesting that "It is a process that has outlived its
usefulness."

The United States shouldn't abandon an accountability process for Mexico or
any other major drug-exporting country that receives U.S. aid. However,
reforms that could strengthen the alliance, and greater cooperation,
between the two nations would be helpful.

U.S. Sen. Kay Bailey Hutchison, R-Texas (with support from other U.S.
lawmakers) plans to resurrect the certification issue in a few weeks.
Hutchison plans to suggest suspending the certification process this year
and allowing both presidents to work on their anti-drug strategies.

The idea -- on a temporary basis -- makes sense.