Sheinbaum Discusses U.S.-Mexico Relations and Notable Deportation Case

President Claudia Sheinbaum held a press conference addressing trade talks with the U.S., potential remittance taxes, arms trafficking acknowledgment, and a Mexican citizen’s deportation case. She expressed a desire to alleviate tariffs, opposed the remittance tax, highlighted foreign investment confidence, and assured public safety engagements without increased security measures for officials. She remains steadfast in her approach amid these challenges.

In a Thursday morning press conference, President Claudia Sheinbaum shared updates regarding her administration’s discussions with the United States government. The conference, slightly delayed to accommodate an early call from President Donald Trump, focused on trade issues, particularly U.S. tariffs on Mexican goods. Sheinbaum emphasized that communication between the two countries remains strong, confirming that Economy Minister Marcelo Ebrard is set to travel to Washington D.C. for further negotiations. “We’re working to reduce the tariffs even more,” she stated, indicating the ongoing collaboration to improve economic relations.

The president also addressed the U.S. House of Representatives’ recent approval of a significant budget bill, dubbed the “One Big Beautiful Bill.” This bill proposes a 3.5% tax on remittances sent abroad by non-citizen immigrants, slightly lower than earlier proposals which suggested a higher 5% tax. This potential tax is particularly sensitive for Mexico, where remittances from the U.S. amount to tens of billions annually. “We don’t want there to be a tax,” Sheinbaum remarked, reinforcing the Mexican government’s efforts to lobby against the remittance tax, which she has previously labeled as unconstitutional in the U.S.

Furthermore, Sheinbaum highlighted her administration’s commitment to eliminating the remittance tax entirely, stating that she would continue discussions with both Republican and Democratic senators to advocate against it. Although she did not broach the matter with Trump during their conversation, she assured that future discussions would address this important issue.

In a separate matter, Sheinbaum acknowledged an important comment made by Secretary of State Marco Rubio regarding arms trafficking. Sheinbaum noted that U.S. acknowledgment of the issue marks a significant change in the approach of the Trump administration. “Perhaps the Trump administration is the first that effectively acknowledges there is trafficking of weapons from the United States to Mexico and wants to combat it,” she observed. The issue has increasingly gained attention amid ongoing cartel violence and arms flow into Mexico.

Turning to a controversial case, Sheinbaum addressed the deportation of Jesus Muñoz Gutiérrez, a Mexican citizen who had been detained in the U.S. after being convicted of second-degree murder. Muñoz was slated for deportation alongside other criminals to South Sudan, but a U.S. judge intervened, halting the deportation to a different location. During the conference, Sheinbaum made it clear that her administration was not informed prior to the deportation, stating that if Muñoz desires repatriation, the U.S. must facilitate his return to Mexico. “The entire case is being reviewed,” she confirmed.

Amidst economic discussions, Sheinbaum expressed optimism regarding foreign direct investment in Mexico, which has reportedly improved in the first quarter of the year compared to the previous year. “That means there is confidence in investing in our country,” she assured, despite the broader global economic uncertainties contributing to concern.

When asked whether her government plans to boost security for officials following the murders of aides to another mayor, Sheinbaum responded firmly, stating, “No, we don’t plan to.” Her sentiment echoes that of her predecessor, emphasizing the importance of remaining connected to the public. “The day we distance ourselves from the people is the day we stop being a government of the people and for the people,” she affirmed, reiterating her commitment to engagement with citizens regardless of potential risks.

By Peter Davies, Mexico News Daily Chief Staff Writer

President Claudia Sheinbaum addressed various critical issues during her Thursday press conference. With ongoing discussions regarding U.S. tariffs, the potential remittance tax, and arms trafficking, Sheinbaum expressed both optimism and determination about improving Mexico-U.S. relations. Furthermore, she reiterated her administration’s commitment to engaging with its citizens and ensuring their interests are prioritized. The review of the case involving a deported Mexican citizen highlights ongoing diplomatic complexities. Overall, Sheinbaum’s remarks underlined her government’s strategy amidst pressing national and international concerns.

Original Source: mexiconewsdaily.com