Drug war a major theme in Mexico "State of the Union" address

(Vatican Radio) Tackling Mexico's seven year Drug War, has been a major theme running through the first State of the Nation address of the county's President.

President Enrique Peña Nieto says drug cartel violence and the deaths resulting from it, is decreasing. He stressed the need for coordination and to be proactive as well as positive, praising the military, police and the Attorney General's office.

Concerning energy, President Peña Nieto pledged that oil stays 100 per cent in Mexican hands. But private contracts in which profit sharing is feasible, can generate thousands of jobs, while reducing electricity and gas bills. He stressed that the window of opportunity is open, and this is the moment to move and transform Mexico.

Legislators have just passed the Education Reform Bill, which now goes to the Senate for final approval. Unpopular with some teachers due to a performance assessment clause, there have been protests which meant this speech had to be delivered in the Presidential Palace and not Congress, which has been picketed. President Peña Nieto explained the reform must progress because it involves the future of Mexico's children and young people.

James Blears reports from Mexico City: