Japan’s Abe in Mexico: Reformist leaders look for further common ground

Global Business

Abe’s visit to Mexico is the first visit to Latin America for a Japanese Prime Minister in 10 years. Shinzo Abe touched down in Mexico, the first stop on his tour. CCTV America’s John Holman reports.

Abe is the latest world leader to beat a path towards a region attractive for its economic growth, plentiful natural resources and cheap labor. While Mexico is attracted to Japan, Japan is equally important to Mexico. Over the last nine years, Japan has invested more than $16 billion in Mexico, primarily in a growing auto industry and continues to be Mexico’s top trading partner in Asia.

The two leaders today emphasized the length and strength of the relationship with new accords. Abe brought with him Japanese business leaders who will be watching carefully Mexico’s telecommunication and energy sectors.
After years in the grasp of a handful of companies or the state, President Peña Nieto is trying to open them up to international investment through landmark reforms.

Abe is also looking for support for Japan’s bid for a non-permanent seat on the UN security council and he appeared to receive the support in Mexico. Saturday the Japanese Prime Minister will continue his trip, traveling on to Brazil, Chile, Colombia, Trinidad and Tobago.

To discuss those foreign investment prospects. Saruhan Hatipoglu the CEO of Beri Consulting has more.

For more perspective on Shinzo Abe’s visit to Latin America and the reaction from China. Victor Gao has more from Beijing. He’s a current affairs commentator and international relations expert.

Victor Gao on Abe\'s visit to Latin America

For more perspective on Shinzo Abe's visit to Latin America and the reaction from China. Victor Gao has more from Beijing. He's a current affairs commentator and international relations expert.