Obama: W. Hemisphere Must Be Ready to Compete Globally

U.S. President Barack Obama says the economic systems of the Americas must integrate if they want to compete in a 21st century world.

Obama said at a regional economic forum in Costa Rica Saturday that the countries of the Western Hemisphere need the best educational and regulatory systems. He said if the nations do not coordinate their activities, they will fall behind other regions in the world.

In his weekly radio address, Obama said Latin America represents an "incredible opportunity" for good, middle class jobs in the United States.

The economic forum was the last stop on the president's three-day Latin America trip, which included a visit to Mexico. Obama talked about U.S. immigration reform, border security, and fighting the illegal drug trade.

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In the weekly Republican address, North Carolina Governor Pat McCrory touted efforts by Republican governors, including his plans for job creation, which he says include prioritizing funding for training in engineering, and vocational and technical training.

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