TIJUANA, Mexico -- Mexican President Vicente Fox said he is eager to Washington and New York to offer his nation's assistance and condolences to the American people.

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Fox Spoke About Effect On Tourism President Fox Said Mexico Wants To Unite With U.S.

Fox was at a Tijuana military base Wednesday to review security measures that are being taken to guard against terrorism. Speaking to reporters there, he said that Mexico wants to unite with the United States against terrorism.

The terrorist acts of Sept. 11 constitute an attack on liberty, Fox said.

San Diego Police Chief David Bejarano and a number of other local officials were also at the base Wednesday. Bejarano said that he was happy to see that security was a focus south of the border.

"It enhances security on the U.S. side," he said.

San Diego County Supervisor Greg Cox, Dist. 1, said that while security is important, it is also important not to lose sight of the strides made over the years in strengthening the relationship between the United States and Mexico.

"This has had a truly international impact, and we need to learn while we secure our borders," he said, "we need open hands and friendship with Mexico."

That was a feeling echoed by Fox as he expressed concern for Baja's economy. He said that the number of Mexicans crossing into the United States has dropped 60 percent since Sept. 11.

Tighter security checks by U.S. officials have resulted in long waits at the border and discouraged cross-border traffic.

Julie Meier Wright, of the San Diego Economic Development Corporation, said that the issue of maintaining both trade and security present a "whole new challenge."

Fox plans to fly to Washington Thursday to express his nation's support for the U.S. war on terror. Fox is to meet with President Bush before traveling to New York.