Chinese President Hu Jintao's trip to Latin America helps cement Beijing's growing relationship with the region. After the G20 summit and before the Asia-Pacific Economic Cooperation conference in Lima, Hu traveled to Costa Rica and Cuba.

With a political transition in progress, the Bush administration continues to urge passage of the  U.S.-Colombia trade pact. But whether the deal will gain congressional approval during a lame-duck session remains in doubt.

At a time when ethanol production faces the effects of the global credit crunch, questions arise about how Latin America and a new U.S. administration will cooperate in the field of biofuels.

Heavily favored across the Americas, Barack Hussein Obama cruised to a victory on Election Day. Where does he stand on issues that affect the Americas and Hispanic voters? An AS/COA analysis takes a look at his positions on trade, immigration, and U.S.-Cuba policy, as well as how he is perceived across the hemisphere.

After months of debate, Mexico’s Congress overwhelmingly approved energy reform with the goal of ending a production slump. The reforms strengthen the authority of Pemex’s management, amongst other changes. But some analysts wonder if the new laws go far enough.

In a move that draws Beijing closer to Latin America, China joined the Inter-American Development Bank and agreed to support $350 million in development projects. The Asian giant's hunger for Latin American commodities has made it the region's second largest trading partner.

Since July, commodity prices have contracted, threatening spending programs and fiscal policy in Venezuela in particular. But the Chávez government remains optimistic amid cautionary calls.