Updated

President Bush will leave next month on a five-nation tour of Latin America, the White House said Thursday.

Bush and first lady Laura Bush will visit Brazil, Uruguay, Colombia, Guatemala and Mexico from March 8 to 14.

"The trip will underscore the commitment of the United States to the Western Hemisphere and will highlight our common agenda to advance freedom, prosperity and social justice and deliver the benefits of democracy in the areas of health, education and economic opportunity," White House press secretary Tony Snow said.