Contributions from Carin Zissis
President Barack Obama made the case for his first trip to South America before arriving by saying economic partnerships with the region will help secure U.S. jobs. In Brasilia, Obama met with Brazilian President Dilma Rousseff, who called for a more multilateral world.
Senate Republicans ratcheted up pressure for passage of Colombia and Panama trade pacts this week, warning they would potentially block a commerce secretary appointment if the Obama administration does not usher through the deals.
U.S. President Barack Obama meets with heads of state from four Latin American countries in March—first when Mexican President Felipe Calderón visits Washington, followed by Obama's tour of Brazil, Chile, and El Salvador later in the month. AS/COA Online explores topics on the agenda in each case.