Both presidents hope trade deals will help to fight the drugs war

Trade talks between the two countries have reached a crucial stage.

Mr Uribe is leading the Colombian team personally, but differences remain over agricultural issues.

The US sees trade as a way of creating new jobs to fight Colombia's drugs trade which accounts for much of the US's cocaine supply.

President Bush described the meeting as "difficult" but said he was hopeful.

"Trade agreements are never easy and that's what's very important to understand, " he said.

Mr Uribe said success would depend on a push from both sides.

"We have been negotiating an FTA (free trade agreement) for the last 23 months. All of us have come to this negotiation in good faith and I'm sure that we will see a conclusion," he said.

The main differences are over agriculture.

The US wants greater access to Colombia's markets such as rice and poultry, whereas Colombia wants the US to make its health control for farm products less stringent.

Drugs war

Both sides see an agreement as a means of fighting the drugs trade.

President Bush said he and Mr Uribe spoke about giving people alternative means of earning a living.

"Absolutely we understand the connection between trade, legal products and a free way between nations as a way to compete against illegal activities," he said.

Andean countries account for 90% of cocaine sold in the US.