U.S. to check Mexico-bound vehicles

WASHINGTON, June 16 (UPI) -- U.S. border agents will now check for guns and drug money in vehicles heading south over the border into Mexico, officials say.

Also part of a new bilateral agreement signed Monday, officials from both countries said they are working to produce a single customs form recognized by both governments to make it easier for cross-border tourists and workers, The Arizona Republic reported.

"People traveling south across the border will see more license-plate scanners and more canine teams in place," Homeland Security Secretary Janet Napolitano said of the agreement signed with Agustin Carstens, Mexico's minister of finance and public credit. The agreement reportedly calls for enhanced cooperation on anti-drug smuggling efforts and border violence.

The Republic said the deal also includes U.S. promises to help Mexico train 1,500 more customs officers.

"The more we work together, the better the service and security we provide to our peoples and economies," said Carstens, who joined Napolitano at a Washington news conference Monday.