Sheinbaum Discusses U.S. Trade Talks and Immigration Concerns in…

During her Thursday press conference, President Claudia Sheinbaum discussed trade negotiations with the U.S., vocalized opposition to a proposed tax on remittances, commented on arms trafficking issues, and addressed the deportation of Jesus Muñoz Gutiérrez. She emphasized Mexico’s good economic indicators and security for government officials, affirming her connection to the public despite threats.

In a briefing early Thursday, President Claudia Sheinbaum outlined Mexico’s ongoing discussions with the United States, particularly regarding trade. She started the press conference at 8:30 a.m., having shifted the time due to an early conversation with President Trump. She stated, “We’re continuing to talk about trade issues…we’re still negotiating,” emphasizing Mexico’s commitment to alleviating tariffs on various products including vehicles, steel, and aluminum.

Sheinbaum expressed confidence in the “good relationship” and ongoing discussions between the two nations, announcing that Economy Minister Marcelo Ebrard would head to Washington, D.C. on Friday for further talks. “We’re working to reduce the tariffs even more,” she added, noting her previous seven phone conversations with Trump have been instrumental.

Addressing the U.S. House of Representatives’ recent budget bill, which proposes a 3.5% tax on remittances sent by non-citizen immigrants, Sheinbaum advocated strongly against it. The proposed tax, which was previously 5%, refers to the billions of dollars flowing into Mexico annually. She stated, “In any case, we don’t want there to be a tax,” and reaffirmed, “So we’re going to keep working so there is no tax on the remittances our compatriots send to their families in Mexico.”

Government officials in Mexico are lobbying U.S. legislators, arguing that a tax on remittances is not only unjust but potentially unconstitutional. Sheinbaum reiterated, “We’re going to continue speaking with Republican and Democrat senators…explaining why it’s not good for there to be a tax on remittances.” While she did not mention this topic during her conversation with Trump, she assured that future discussions would include it.

The president also commented on recent acknowledgments by U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio regarding arms trafficking issues involving Mexican cartels. Citing her initial conversations with Trump post-election, she requested more concerted efforts against the flow of U.S. manufactured firearms into Mexico. Sheinbaum stated, “The Trump administration is, perhaps, the first [U.S. government] that in effect acknowledges there is trafficking of weapons from the United States to Mexico and wants to combat it.”

Turning to the case of Jesus Muñoz Gutiérrez, a Mexican citizen deported from the U.S., Sheinbaum revealed that her administration was unaware of his deportation. Muñoz was convicted of murder in the U.S. and the U.S. government had intended to send him to South Sudan. However, a federal judge halted this deportation. “If he wants to be repatriated, the United States would have to bring him to Mexico,” Sheinbaum remarked, indicating that the situation is currently under review.

Sheinbaum discussed the broader context of tariffs, which she believes have transformed the global economic landscape. Despite challenges, she remained optimistic, highlighting increased foreign direct investment reported by Ebrard. “That means there is confidence in investing in our country,” she noted, underscoring the importance of this trend for Mexico’s ongoing economic viability.

Finally, when asked about increasing security for officials following the recent murders of aides to Mexico City Mayor Clara Brugada, Sheinbaum dismissed such measures, stating, “No, we don’t plan to.” She emphasized her commitment to remaining accessible to the public, reiterating, “The day we distance ourselves from the people is the day we stop being a government of the people and for the people.”

In summary, President Claudia Sheinbaum’s Thursday press conference highlighted the ongoing trade negotiations with the United States and opposition to a proposed remittance tax. Additionally, she addressed issues surrounding arms trafficking and the case of a Mexican man deported to Africa. While she acknowledged security concerns within her administration, she still affirmed her commitment to public engagement, reinforcing her stance on maintaining close relations with the people of Mexico.

Original Source: mexiconewsdaily.com