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00000174-b11b-ddc3-a1fc-bfdbb1d30001HearSA is an online audio archive of public programming intended to foster discussion and enhance awareness of informative local presentations and events. The archive includes lectures, panel discussions, book readings, and more. The opinions presented in these programs are those of the author or presenter, not Texas Public Radio or any of its stations, and are not necessarily endorsed by TPR.

Seizing Opportunities And Confronting Challenges In The Americas

Shahrzad Dowlatshahi

Ambassador Roger Noriega, who served as Assistant Secretary of State for Western Hempisphere Affairs under President George W. Bush, spoke on Thursday, January 15, 2015 to the World Affairs Council of San Antonio. Noriega frequently writes for the American Enterprise Institute.

"I'm very gung ho on Latin America, but you would never know it from this presentation," Noriega joked before beginning his speech, "Growing Together: Seizing Opportunities and Confronting Challenges in the Americas."

Noriega's speech touched on Mexico; he said the consumption of illegal drugs by America fuels criminal syndicates there. The Mexican drug war, he said, is really "our" drug war, but "Mexico is fighting it." Noriega noted the corruption that plagues Latin American countries, and offered his solutions for a way to build bridges and make connections. "[These countries] don't need paternalism. They don't need lectures. They need partners."

Hear Noriega's entire speech in the audio link above. Apologia: technical difficulties resulted in less than optimum audio quality during the opening 8 minutes of this speech.

The World Affairs Council of San Antonio is a not-for-profit, non-partisan, citizen’s educational forum that meets monthly to discuss important foreign policy issues. The mission of the World Affairs Council is to promote public understanding of world affairs and United States foreign policy and to enhance the ability of its citizens and future leaders to participate in a global community. We accomplish our mission by presenting a Distinguished Speaker lecture series, holding receptions, organizing discussion groups, sponsoring educational outreach programs to area high schools and universities, and hosting deliberative sessions for young professionals. Meet ambassadors, authors, government officials, scholars, and entrepreneurs from around the world, and mingle with other global citizens like you, who are part of San Antonio’s growing international community.