President Barack Obama is opening a two-day trip to Mexico aimed at bolstering US economic ties with its southern neighbour.

Air Force One touched down in Mexico City this afternoon. Obama is scheduled to hold meetings and a news conference with his Mexican counterpart, President Enrique Pena Nieto (PAYN’-yuh nee-EH’-toh).

Obama’s trip will also focus on the security relationship between the two countries.

Since taking office in December, Pena Nieto has moved to end the widespread access it gave US security agencies helping fight drug trafficking and organised crime.

Obama will also be looking for support from Mexico for the immigration overhaul effort under way on Capitol Hill.

The president will visit Costa Rica before returning to Washington late Saturday.