Pragmatism important in today's world: ExPresident of Mexico

"Ideologies are a thing of the past. Ushering in growth, eradication of poverty and enhancing human capabilities are more important now", Quesada, who served as President of Mexico from 2000-06, said during an interaction with journalists here.

Replying to queries on resurgence of socialism in parts of Latin America, he said pushing pragmatic policies were vital in achieving growth, especially for fast developing countries like India, Mexico and Brazil.

When his attention was drawn to India's recent decision to allow FDI in multi-brand retail, Quesada said it would bear positive results.

He said there was no substance in theories that entry of retail giants like Walmart would harm the domestic business. "These are rumours. Don't believe them," he said.

On the menace of drug trade in Mexico, Quesada said there were people who strongly advocate legalisation of drug manufacture and use and he supported that view.

If manufacture and use of drug was legalised, it would to great extent eliminate violence and crimes linked with illegal drug pushing.

He said the United States had a similar experience when it prohibited liquor last century. When prohibition was in force, it led to flourish of illegal liquor trade spawning violence and murders in its wake, he said.

Quesda was in Kerala capital on invitation from IT major UST Global, which is setting up its centre in Mexico.

He called on Kerala Chief Minister Oommen Chandy last evening.