U.S. Senator Marco Rubio returned from the Summit of the Americas on Sunday.
UNCUT VIDEO: Rubio talks Cuba, Ozzie Guillen
"I think it's a good moment to focus once again on our own backyard," said Rubio.
He said state economies in the region, including the summit's host country, Columbia, are growing, which could benefit the U.S.
"We have some real opportunities for Americans to make money off the economic growth and opportunity that's happening in Latin America, especially in Florida, and we are going to see that with the free trade agreement with Columbia," said Rubio.
Regional leaders also spoke about whether to include Cuba in future summits. The communist nation has never been invited due to U.S. pressure, but other states feel their exclusion is counterproductive.
Meantime, the Ladies in White, a Cuban opposition movement, wrote a letter which Rubio said he delivered to the president of Chile.
"He has been a strong ally of this cause, so it was my honor to be able to present to him, to meet with him, and present that letter to him in our meetings," said Rubio.
Also discussed was the war on drugs and whether the American-supported militarized approach to combat drug gangs escalates violence. The Columbian president suggested a change in policy, including decriminalizing some drugs.
Rubio said not much was said about the recent Secret Service scandal.
"It really wasn't a topic of conversation in Cartagena, although I understand it's been a big part of conversation back home," said Rubio.
U.S. Southern Command in Doral said five South Florida military members were at the Cartagena hotel where 11 Secret Service members are accused of hiring prostitutes, drinking heavily, and violating curfew. The team was sent to secure several sites ahead of the President's visit.
Peter King, Chairman of the House Homeland Security Committee, said one woman told police she was owed money by the Secret Service agents.
"Columbia police then filed a report with the American embassy. The Secret Service saw that and they began their investigation," said King.
Former Washington Post reporter Ron Kessler said security was compromised when the agents found themselves in a position where they could be blackmailed.
"Obviously, any time you see that, you are disappointed, but I have full faith that both the military from the South Command and the Secret Service from their end are going to handle this situation appropriately," said Rubio.
The 11 Secret Service members have been placed on administrative leave.