In a press conference after the meeting here between the Mexican and U.S. presidents, Vicente Fox and George W. Bush, respectively, during the Asian-Pacific Economic Cooperation forum, Derbez said the two leaders believe the question is key from the point of view of security, and for Bush it is a priority.

"There is a small window of opportunity for this discussion that runs from right now until the month of November of next year," said Derbez.

He said it was difficult to give deadlines because "it is up to the United States not only to raise the subject but also to hold the debate in its Congress."

Asked about the results of the Bush-Fox meeting, Derbez said no one should expect "spectacular announcements," which he believes are a legacy from the past, but rather the continuation of a long process that is following its course.

"What we want is to see what President Bush presents specifically and then have our opinion, but we have to wait until they make the final presentation," he said.

"For (Mexico) what we want is the security of our workers, of our Mexicans. And that is simply (so) that they will no longer be subject to any kind of humiliation or problems because they lack legal immigration status," Derbez said.

He added that Bush "understands clearly, as do we, that the Mexicans who go (abroad) looking for work are not people who have problems in terms of terrorism or security."

Derbez did not say that any specific progress on migration matters had been made, but did note that agreements are on the table regarding "the need for a connection between someone seeking employment and someone offering a job" and Bush's pledge to bring the matter to the U.S. Congress in 2005.