ewly elected President Enrique Pena Nieto announced he will continue combating against illegal drug production and trafficking in Mexico, despite the legalization of marijuana in two U.S. states, as well as liberalized use for medical purpose in others.

When asked if votes to legalize recreational use of marijuana in Washington state and Colorado would make him rethink Mexico’s drug war-policy, Pena Nieto stated that “the short answer is no,” also adding he remains personally opposed to legalization.

“My government will continue mounting a real fight against the trafficking of marijuana and all other drugs,” said Pena Nieto.

Instead, he has proposed focusing on reducing violence in Mexico rather than capturing top drug lords, a change from his predecessor, Felipe Calderon. Many have view that as a signal that as long as drug gangs don’t attack civilians, they would be left alone.

via Mexico’s President Says He’s Not Backing Down From Drug War | Fox News Latino.