The U.S. consul in Tijuana says his top priorities include modernizing the border crossings, collaborating with Mexico on security issues and correcting many of Americans' negative views of Tijuana. Stephen Kashkett spoke to business leaders in Tijuana.
Kashkett says the image of Tijuana as a dangerous and lawless place is firmly planted in many Americans' minds.
Kashkett says it is a reality that Baja California is fighting organized crime.
"But, there are other realities that should also be part of Americans' image of the region. In my short time in Tijuana, the region's dynamism and potential have impressed me. I like people's hospitality," he said.
Kashkett suggested inviting U.S. business leaders to Tijuana to see for themselves that daily life is more than kidnappings and killings.
Kashkett says the border crossings must be modernized. He says his 16-year-old daughter's busy social schedule means he spends much of his life waiting in line to cross to the U.S.
