Mexican President Claudia Sheinbaum rejects retaliatory tariffs against the US, emphasizing communication instead. As President Trump announces new tariffs aimed at addressing trade imbalances, Sheinbaum stresses Mexico’s commitment to dialogue over conflict. Additionally, she addressed migration negotiations, asserting Mexico’s independence in dealings with the US.
On Tuesday, Mexican President Claudia Sheinbaum affirmed that Mexico would not adopt an ‘eye for an eye’ strategy in response to impending higher tariffs from the United States. This statement comes as expectations grow surrounding President Donald Trump’s impending announcement of reciprocal tariffs, expected to impose a 25 percent tax on imported automobiles and auto parts. Sheinbaum emphasized Mexico’s commitment to dialogue while affirming they would address any measures taken by the US, stating, “We do not believe in an eye for an eye, a tooth for a tooth, because that always leads to a bad situation.”
President Trump has designated Wednesday as America’s “Liberation Day” for unveiling these tariffs, which he asserts are necessary to rectify trade imbalances. Given Mexico’s substantial trade relationship with the United States, it remains highly vulnerable to these tariff changes, with American companies like Ford, General Motors, BMW, Volkswagen, and Toyota operating numerous assembly plants in the region. Notably, the US accounts for nearly 80 percent of Mexico’s exports, including around three million automobiles each year.
Sheinbaum indicated that her administration would hold off on any responses until the specifics of Trump’s announcement were disclosed, stating, “We don’t know exactly what will be announced on April 2; no nation in the world knows.” Additionally, Sheinbaum addressed migration discussions with the United States, asserting Mexico’s willingness to collaborate but clarifying that they would not operate under US authority, as “the president answers to one authority only, and that is the people of Mexico.”
The topic of migration has generated tension between the neighboring countries, with US Homeland Security chief Kristi Noem recently meeting Sheinbaum to discuss measures aimed at curbing migration, including enhancing Mexico’s control over its border with Guatemala. This border is a common route for many migrants traveling from South America to the US.
In summary, President Claudia Sheinbaum’s remarks advocate for dialogue over retaliatory tariffs as Mexico braces for the impact of the US’s forthcoming tariff announcements. She firmly rejects any ‘eye for an eye’ response to these trade measures while emphasizing Mexico’s significant commercial ties to the US. The situation regarding migration remains a critical point of discussion as both countries seek to navigate their complex relationship.
Original Source: newscentral.africa
