Today, Congressman Henry Cuellar (D-Laredo) traveled to Cartagena, Colombia where he will join President Barack Obama for the sixth Summit of the Americas meeting.  Cuellar, who is the Chair of the Pro-Trade Caucus, will participate in discussions with heads of state on the Summit’s theme of “Connecting the Americas: Partners for Prosperity.” 

As the representative from a district that is highly involved in international trade by rail, truck and air, Cuellar has been extensively involved both in free trade issues and in promoting secure international borders.  Additionally, Cuellar spearheaded the U.S.-Colombia Free Trade Agreement and serves as the co-chair of the Congressional Colombia Caucus. 

The Summit of the Americas occurs every three years and presents an opportunity for leaders throughout the Americas to promote regional cooperation and jointly define an agenda for the Hemisphere. Cuellar is traveling to the Summit as a member of a bipartisan group headed by House Foreign Affairs Subcommittee Chairman Rep. Connie Mack (R-Fla.).