The Japanese nuclear crisis cast its shadow over a U.S.-Chilean energy agreement signed days before President Barack Obama’s arrival in Santiago. How will Latin American countries move forward with nuclear energy ambitions?

U.S. President Barack Obama told an audience in Rio that Brazil is a “thriving democracy” and a model for movements rising against authoritarian governments in the Middle East and North Africa.

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.

Central American security concerns were on the agenda during the U.S. president’s March 22 stop in San Salvador. His visit coincides with plans to bump up funding for the region’s struggle against rising gang-related violence.

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.

With President Obama set to commence a five-day, Latin American tour on March 19, AS/COA offers coverage and analysis to shine a light on priorities for his first presidential visit to Central and South America.

President Barack Obama’s upcoming visit serves as a signal of the administration’s interest in Brazil, as the country continues its economic and political rise.