In Washington on August 9, the leaders of the United States, Mexico, and Canada, known as "the three amigos," are beginning a summit in Mexico to discuss trade issues and the threat posed by drug gangs. President Barack Obama, Canadian Prime Minister Stephen Harper, and Mexican President Felipe Calderon will meet in Guadalajara for dinner on Sunday night, followed by talks on Monday. Their main priorities include boosting their economies, maintaining smooth trade relations, and addressing the issue of Mexican drug gangs operating across the U.S. border and into Canada. While major agreements are not expected to be announced, Obama's national security adviser, Jim Jones, believes the summit will serve as a step towards future agreements. Calderon is likely to pressure Obama to resolve a dispute over cross-border trucking. According to the North American Free Trade Agreement, Mexican trucks are supposed to be permitted to enter the United States, but American trucking companies argue that Mexican trucks are not safe. This issue has been ongoing for years. In response to the cancellation of a program allowing Mexican trucks to operate beyond the U.S. border zone, Mexico imposed tariffs totaling $2.4 billion on U.S. goods in March. U.S. business groups have been urging the White House to resolve the dispute, as they believe the ban could result in the loss of thousands of American jobs. Mexico's ambassador to the United States, Arturo Sarukhan, expressed the desire for a final resolution to the trucking issue. He mentioned that he wants to reach an agreement by the end of the year. Michael Froman, a top official at the White House, informed reporters that the Obama administration is actively working with the U.S. Congress to address safety concerns. Canadian officials are concerned about the "Buy American" components of a $787 billion economic stimulus package, which they fear could exclude Canadian companies from U.S. construction contracts funded by the stimulus. Canada is the United States' biggest trading partner. Froman stated that the Obama administration is in discussions with Canada and other countries to enforce the 'Buy American' provision in a manner that complies with the law and international obligations, while also minimizing trade disruptions. Obama addressed a potential concern before his trip by stating that now is not the right time to reopen the North American Free Trade Agreement (NAFTA) and add enforceable labor and environmental protections. He acknowledged the difficult economic situation and expressed interest in improving the treaty in the future. Another key issue at the summit is how to address the violence caused by Mexican drug gangs, despite President Calderon's efforts to combat them. Obama is supporting Calderon's actions in going after drug traffickers, praising his courage. During a visit in April, Obama promised full support to Calderon. However, Mexico is frustrated with the slow arrival of anti-drug equipment and training. The leaders will also discuss H1N1 swine flu and climate change as they prepare for international talks in Copenhagen in December.