Just as we advance our common prosperity, we must advance our common security.

The United States will strongly support respect for the rule of law, better law enforcement and stronger judicial institutions. Security must be advanced through our commitment to partner with those who are courageously battling drug cartels, gangs and other criminal networks throughout the Americas. And our efforts start at home.

By reducing demand for drugs and curtailing the illegal flow of weapons and bulk cash south across our border, we can advance security in the United States and beyond. And going forward, we will sustain a lasting dialogue in the hemisphere to ensure that we are building on best practices, adapting to new threats and co-ordinating our efforts.

Finally, the summit gives every democratically-elected leader in the Americas the opportunity to reaffirm our shared values.

Each of our countries has pursued its own democratic journey, but we must be joined together in our commitment to liberty, equality and human rights. That is why I look forward to the day when every country in the hemisphere can take its seat at the table consistent with the Inter-American Democratic Charter.

And just as the United States seeks that goal in reaching out to the Cuban people, we expect all of our friends in the hemisphere to join together in supporting liberty, equality and human rights for all Cubans.

This summit offers the opportunity of a new beginning. Advancing prosperity, security and liberty for the people of the Americas depends upon 21st century partnerships, freed from the posturing of the past. That is the leadership and partnership that the United States stands ready to provide.

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