Secretary of State Marco Rubio is embarking on his fourth trip to the Western Hemisphere, visiting Mexico and Ecuador. This trip focuses on key Trump administration goals: curbing illegal immigration, fighting drug cartels and countering Chinese influence. The State Department highlights the US's commitment to border security and fair trade. Rubio's previous trips involved agreements on deportations and countering Chinese activity in the Panama Canal. Progress has been made in these areas, though challenges remain, particularly with China's economic influence in the region.

Prepared by Lauren Mitchell and reviewed by editorial team.