U.S. and Mexican officials spoke about various problems that are unique to the U.S.-Mexico border region. Among the issues addressed at the day-long conference were drug-related violence in Mexico, cross-border trade and commerce, and immigration reform and labor mobility. 
Following introductory remarks panelists talked about the Mérida Initiative; a security cooperation agreement between the United States, the government of Mexico and the countries of Central America, with the aim of combating the threats of drug trafficking, transnational crime and money laundering. The assistance includes training, equipment and intelligence. Panelists also answered questions from the audience.