Mexico’s President Rejects Retaliation Against US Tariffs

Mexican President Claudia Sheinbaum has rejected an ‘eye for an eye’ approach to impending US tariffs, emphasizing dialogue and a comprehensive response. As President Trump prepares to announce reciprocal tariffs, Sheinbaum stresses that her administration will wait for details before reacting and maintain sovereignty in migration discussions.

On Tuesday, Mexican President Claudia Sheinbaum expressed that there will be no adoption of an ‘eye for an eye’ strategy as the nation braces for impending US import tax increases. Her statement came shortly before President Donald Trump is expected to announce retaliatory tariffs, which could impose a 25 percent tax on imported automobiles and auto parts.

Mexico, as the largest trading partner of the United States, has consistently emphasized the importance of dialogue and communication, promising a “comprehensive response” to any tariffs imposed by Trump. Sheinbaum remarked, “We do not believe in an eye for an eye, a tooth for a tooth, because that always leads to a bad situation.” She acknowledged that Mexico would implement measures in response to US actions but insisted that dialogue should continue.

President Trump has designated Wednesday as America’s “Liberation Day” when he is set to announce various “reciprocal tariffs” aimed at correcting trade imbalances. Given Mexico’s significant trade relationship with the United States, it remains vulnerable to such tariffs, especially with numerous foreign automobile assembly plants operating within the country.

Approximately 80 percent of Mexico’s exports, including roughly three million vehicles annually, are purchased by the United States. Sheinbaum indicated that her administration would hold off on any reactions until the specifics of Trump’s announcement are revealed, stating, “We don’t know exactly what will be announced on April 2; no nation in the world knows.”

Addressing migration, another contentious issue between the two nations, Sheinbaum affirmed her government’s willingness to collaborate with the US but emphasized that they would not be subordinate. “The president answers to one authority only, and that is the people of Mexico,” she articulated. Notably, US Homeland Security chief Kristi Noem met with Sheinbaum recently to discuss methods for curtailing migration, highlighting control over Mexico’s border with Guatemala, a transit route for individuals traveling from South America to the US.

In summary, President Claudia Sheinbaum of Mexico has firmly rejected the implementation of retaliatory measures against potential tariffs from the United States. She emphasized the need for continued dialogue and cooperation, particularly concerning trade and migration, asserting Mexico’s sovereignty. The effectiveness of this diplomatic approach remains to be seen, particularly in light of impending tariff announcements from President Trump.

Original Source: newscentral.africa