MERIDA, Mexico (AP):

President Bush, seeking to rebuild ties with Mexico, pledged yesterday to intensify efforts to overhaul U.S. immigration laws and crack down on illegal drug trafficking.

Bush said that he senses there has been a change of attitudes in congress about updating immigration laws, from scepticism last year to recognition now that changes are in U.S. interests.

"I will work with congress, members of both political parties, to pass immigration law that will enable us to respect the rule of law and at the same time, respect humanity," Bush said in a news conference with Mexican President Felipe Calderon.

Important but sensitive issue

Bush, facing a huge fight within his own party for his immigration plan, called it an important but sensitive issue.

"I say important because a good migration law will help both economies and will help the security of both countries," Bush said. "If people can come into our country, for example, on a temporary basis to work, doing jobs Americans aren't doing, they won't have to sneak across the border."

The meeting with Calderon capped a seven-day trip through five countries in Latin America. While Bush sought to shore up relations with Latin America and showcase U.S. compassion, he was shadowed by protests and taunts by leftist President Hugo Chevez of Venezuela. Chavez has accused Bush of turning his back on the region.

Focused on democracy

As he has throughout the trip, Bush shrugged off a question about Ch?vez and would not use name.

"Our conversations focused on democracy and the rule of law and prosperity," Bush said after meeting with Calderon.

Calderon, a fierce critic of plans for new U.S. fencing along the Mexican border, said his neighbour to the north must take other steps to ensure orderly migration. He thanked Bush for pressing congress on the matter.

"We have seen the political will in order to reach shared goals," Calderon said.