Washington - For one of his first meetings of the New Year, US President Barack Obama will host Mexican President Enrique Pena Nieto in the Oval Office on Tuesday, January 6th. The objective of the meeting is to strengthen ties between the North American neighbors.

"The president looks forward to welcoming President Pena Nieto to Washington and working with him to continue strengthening the strategic partnership between the United States and Mexico and advancing our common goals," the White House said in a statement.

"The two leaders will highlight the importance of expanding dialogue and cooperation between the United States and Mexico on economic, security, and social issues, as well underscoring the deep cultural ties and friendship that exist between our two countries."

Pena Nieto will also discuss education and economic competitiveness during the summit, his first visit to Washington since taking office in December 2012.

Obama made a trip to Mexico City in May 2013 and to Toluca, Mexico in February 2014.

The visit comes as the two nations struggle to resolve the thorny issue of illegal immigration from Mexico to the United States, just weeks after Obama's executive actions allow some undocumented migrants to stay in the United States temporarily without risk of deportation.