This hearing occurs at a momentous time in our relationship with Mexico, and in our national attitude toward immigration. I applaud Senator Kennedy for chairing today's hearing, and for his longstanding dedication to the establishment of fair immigration policies. I hope that we come out of this hearing with both a clearer view of the Bush and Fox Administrations' goals for the ongoing bilateral discussions, and a strong consensus in the Senate that we will consult and work with the Mexican Government in our consideration of changes in U.S. immigration law and policy.

It was a wonderful experience to take part in President Vicente Fox's address to a joint session of Congress yesterday. I am impressed by his energy and by his dedication to improving the lives of his people and the U.S.-Mexico relationship. I agree with him that the lives of both our nations' citizens would be enhanced by strengthened ties between our countries.

When I think back to the immigration debates we had in this Congress five short years ago, during consideration of the Illegal Immigration Reform and Immigrant Responsibility Act, I am pleased and amazed at the change in rhetoric we see today. Five years ago in this chamber, immigrants received the blame for problems with our national security and economy. Today, the majority of us view immigrants as valuable additions to the American community and vital engines in the economic growth we have witnessed over the last decade.

I do not want to prejudge the immigration proposals that the Bush and Fox Administrations will make. But it is fair to say that I, along with most Senators from both sides of the aisle, intend to be receptive and constructive toward the proposals that arise from the U.S.-Mexico discussions. I have said in the past that we should not offer immigration benefits only to residents of one nation, and I continue to believe that today. But given the importance of Mexican immigration I also believe that we should pay close attention to the thoughts of the Mexican government and the interests of Mexican nationals who are currently in the United States.