Report| October - December 2023
OCTOBER
The North Capital Forum 2023: The Essential North American Way
October 4-6, 2023
The North Capital Forum took place in Mexico City from October 4-6, 2023, hosted by the U.S.-Mexico Foundation. The event served as a platform for addressing North America's challenges and fostering collaborative solutions. It featured influential figures like New York City Mayor Eric Adams and World Economic Forum President Børge Brende. Topics discussed included diasporas, supply chain resilience, and financial opportunities. The event also included networking dinners and a panel on effective governance in North America, emphasizing the importance of collaboration across different government levels.
Institutional Implications:
The North Capital Forum marks a key milestone in U.S.-Mexico institutional ties, showcasing a commitment to dialogue and collaboration. Notable figures like NYC Mayor Eric Adams and WEF President Børge Brende highlight its significance. Discussions on diasporas, supply chains, and governance stress shared economic and societal links. Emphasizing multi-level governance, the forum promotes comprehensive solutions. Networking events further nurture personal connections, aiding institutional cooperation. In essence, the forum is pivotal for fostering dialogue, mutual understanding, and effective collaboration between the U.S. and Mexico.
30th Mexico-US Teacher Exchange Program Binational Meeting in Zacatecas
October 9, 2023
The 30th Binational Meeting of the Mexico-U.S. Teacher Exchange Program (PROBEM) 2023 was held from October 8-10 in Zacatecas, with over 6,000 K-12 students participating. The meeting aims to discuss and exchange experiences between educators from both nations and review programs to ensure students from both countries continue their education. The program promotes students' identification with Mexico, teaches civil responsibility, and promotes respect for human dignity. The head of the Institute for Mexicans Abroad, Luis Gutiérrez Reyes, commended the 79 teachers who participated in the program.
Institutional Implications:
The 30th Binational Meeting of the Mexico-U.S. Teacher Exchange Program (PROBEM) 2023 demonstrates a substantial commitment to educational exchange—the program invests in future leaders. Emphasizing shared values, civil responsibility, and respect, it lays a foundation for stronger diplomatic ties. The commendation of participating teachers highlights their pivotal role in shaping the perceptions of the next generation. Ultimately, PROBEM 2023 is a strategic investment with far-reaching institutional implications for the future of Mexico-U.S. relations.
Joint Statement on U.S.-Mexico High-Level Security Dialogue
October 13, 2023
The U.S. and Mexico have reaffirmed their partnership to enhance security cooperation in the 21st century through the U.S.-Mexico Bicentennial Framework for Security, Public Health, and Safe Communities. The framework aims to combat illicit drug trafficking, human trafficking, and transnational organized crime. It also seeks to address irregular migration and disrupt criminal organizations. The two countries have progressed through the framework, developing plans and actions to protect their people and prevent transborder crime. They have also honored those who have lost their lives in the pursuit of peace and justice.
Institutional Implications:
The U.S.-Mexico Bicentennial Framework for Security, Public Health, and Safe Communities marks a pivotal institutional development, reshaping the bilateral relationship. Its emphasis on combating transnational crimes and addressing migration from a comprehensive perspective signals shared commitment and recognition. Progress in developing coordinated plans reflects increased institutional cooperation, potentially strengthening responses to shared challenges. Honoring lives lost underscores shared values, fostering mutual trust. While promising, the framework's success hinges on both nations' commitment to implementing its plans, making it crucial for the sustainable enhancement of the binational relationship.
Legal Advice Week Commences in the United States and Canada
October 23-27, 2023
Legal Advice Week, aimed at providing assistance and protection to Mexicans in North America, took place in the U.S. and Canada. The event, held in consulates from October 23-27, offers information about legal rights and services available to Mexicans, regardless of immigration status. Activities include workshops on workplace rights, information on Mexico's consular services, and the PALE Program. The initiative is coordinated with labor authorities, lawyers, unions, and NGOs. The Mexican government recognizes the economic contributions of Mexican workers in the U.S. and Canada.
Institutional Implications:
The Legal Advice Week initiative highlights the significance of the Mexico-U.S.-Canada binational relationship, recognizing the socio-economic contributions of Mexican workers. Its collaborative approach involving labor authorities, lawyers, unions, and NGOs signifies robust institutional cooperation. This emphasis on protecting the rights of Mexican workers, irrespective of immigration status, demonstrates a commitment to fair labor practices. By providing information on consular services and the PALE Program, the initiative ensures institutional support, empowering workers to assert their rights. Overall, it exemplifies how institutional collaboration strengthens the binational relationship and addresses shared concerns.
Joint Statement Regarding the 6th Trilateral Working Group Meeting on Human Trafficking
October 24, 2023
The Trilateral Working Group on Trafficking in Persons, involving the U.S., Mexico, and Canada, has been relaunched to strengthen regional collaboration against human trafficking. The group, which had not met since 2018, discussed measures to identify and prevent trafficking, dismantle criminal networks, and address labor exploitation. The three countries reaffirmed their commitment to combat this transnational crime, aiming to provide comprehensive support to victims and hold accountable those who profit from human suffering.
Institutional Implications:
The re-establishment of the Trilateral Working Group on Trafficking in Persons reflects a renewed commitment from the U.S., Mexico, and Canada to combat human trafficking collectively. This institutional collaboration, addressing identification, prevention, criminal network dismantling, and victim support, suggests a comprehensive, multi-pronged strategy. The emphasis on shared responsibility implies strengthened cross-border cooperation. However, the initiative's success depends on translating commitments into actions, sustained political will, resource allocation, and effective coordination. The institutional implications are significant, contingent on these factors, for enhancing anti-trafficking measures and fostering cross-national cooperation.
Utah Governor Spencer Cox holds a meeting with Foreign Secretary Alicia Bárcena
October 24, 2023
The Mexican and Utah State governments have announced a strategic collaboration program to promote economic growth, job creation, and knowledge and technology exchange. The Joint Utah-Mexico Partnership (JUMP) aims to encourage Mexican companies to expand into Utah and vice versa. The initiative is expected to strengthen trade and cooperation between the two countries. Trade between Mexico and Utah currently supports over 51,000 jobs, and the agreement could extend benefits to neighboring states.
Institutional Implications:
Establishing the Joint Utah-Mexico Partnership (JUMP) signals a transformative shift in institutional dynamics, not merely a bilateral agreement. This collaboration may reshape regulatory frameworks, streamline processes, and protect intellectual property, fostering a conducive business environment and prompting institutional reforms in both regions. Encouraging cross-border business expansion could enhance institutional capacity for economic growth and job creation. The knowledge and technology exchange may spur the development of research institutions and innovation-promoting policies. Additionally, JUMP's impact could extend to neighboring states, fostering regional economic integration and transforming the institutional landscape. Overall, JUMP holds the potential for profound institutional reforms and cooperative development.
Consular Dialogue between Mexico and the U.S. in 2023
October 31, 2023
The 21st Mexico-U.S. Consular Dialogue discussed the exchange of good consular practices, bilateral cooperation for protecting vulnerable children and providing documentation and protection services to nationals of both countries. The dialogue aimed to strengthen ties between both countries for the benefit of their citizens. The Mexican delegation was led by Vanessa Calva Ruiz, and the U.S. delegation was led by Rena Bitter. The Mexican government praised the cooperation with the U.S. in implementing consular actions.
Institutional Implications:
The 21st Mexico-U.S. Consular Dialogue marks a crucial advancement in bilateral institutional relations, emphasizing the exchange of effective consular practices. This mutual acknowledgment aims to establish shared standards, enhancing consular services. Collaborative efforts in protecting vulnerable children reflect shared values and may lead to joint initiatives, reinforcing human rights commitments. Providing documentation and protection services demonstrates a practical commitment to citizen welfare, potentially streamlining processes. Leadership at high government levels signals institutionalized and sustained dialogue. Mexican praise for consular cooperation fosters goodwill, strengthening overall binational relations and facilitating conflict resolution. Overall, this dialogue holds significant implications for institutional collaboration and mutual understanding between Mexico and the U.S.
NOVEMBER
Foreign Secretary Alicia Bárcena Visits Washington, D.C.
November 5, 2023
Foreign Secretary Alicia Bárcena represented Mexico's President Andrés Manuel López Obrador at the first Americas Partnership for Economic Prosperity (APEP) summit in Washington, D.C. Bárcena called for a partnership between public and private sectors in Latin America and the Caribbean, promoting nearshoring and reshoring to boost the region's economy. She also urged the Inter-American Development Bank and the North American Development Bank to invest in border infrastructure. Bárcena met with U.S. Treasury Secretary Janet Yellen and other leaders to discuss economic growth challenges.
Institutional Implications:
Mexico's Foreign Secretary Alicia Bárcena's participation in the APEP summit signals a commitment to regional economic prosperity. Her call for public-private partnerships in Latin America and the Caribbean suggests a strategic shift toward collaborative economic development, potentially leading to a more integrated regional economy with institutional facilitation. Emphasizing nearshoring and reshoring implies potential changes in economic policies, requiring adjustments to regional institutional frameworks. Bárcena's focus on urging investment in border infrastructure recognizes the crucial role of institutions like the Inter-American Development Bank, necessitating prioritization within their funding strategies. High-level dialogues, such as with U.S. Treasury Secretary Janet Yellen, highlight the importance of institutional cooperation to address economic growth challenges. This could pave the way for more coordinated regional policy approaches, with institutions playing a central role in facilitating coordination.
Foreign Secretary Alicia Bárcena Visits San Francisco, California
November 15, 2023
Foreign Secretary Alicia Bárcena is in San Francisco, California, to participate in the 34th APEC Ministerial Meeting and accompany President Andrés Manuel López Obrador at the APEC Economic Leaders' Week. The Mexican delegation aims to promote Mexico's priorities in the Asia-Pacific region, including regional cooperation, trade integration, and gender equity. Bárcena will also sign a Memorandum of Understanding with Salesforce, Inc. to empower Mexican women entrepreneurs. President López Obrador will hold meetings with various heads of state, including U.S. President Joe Biden.
Institutional Implications:
The participation of Foreign Secretary Alicia Bárcena and President Andrés Manuel López Obrador in the 34th APEC Ministerial Meeting and the APEC Economic Leaders' Week, respectively, signifies Mexico's commitment to strengthening its diplomatic and economic ties with the Asia-Pacific region. Given the region's significant economic potential, this could potentially lead to increased trade opportunities and economic growth for Mexico.
The focus on regional cooperation, trade integration, and gender equity as Mexico's priorities indicates a strategic approach to international relations that is both inclusive and growth-oriented. This could enhance Mexico's reputation as a progressive nation that values diversity and inclusivity, potentially attracting more foreign investments and partnerships. These meetings could potentially lead to strengthened alliances and partnerships, which could have significant implications for Mexico's geopolitical standing and its ability to influence international policy decisions.
Summary of President Joe Biden's Meeting with Mexican President Andrés Manuel López Obrador
November 17, 2023
President Joseph R. Biden, Jr. and President Andrés Manuel López Obrador of Mexico met in San Francisco, California, to discuss a range of issues, including economic competitiveness, climate change, citizen security, and migration management. They addressed the fentanyl crisis, transnational crime, and the potential for North American prosperity. They also discussed the management of migration across the Western Hemisphere, including efforts to expand legal pathways for migration and address root causes. The two leaders reaffirmed their commitment to the U.S.-Mexico strategic partnership.
Institutional Implications:
The Biden-López Obrador meeting strengthens U.S.-Mexico ties, impacting trade, climate, and security. Talks on competitiveness may prompt policy shifts affecting trade regulations, while shared commitments on climate change could reshape environmental policies. Concerns over citizen security and transnational crime hint at increased cooperation in law enforcement. Addressing the fentanyl crisis underscores a joint commitment to public safety. Discussions on migration management suggest potential policy changes to streamline immigration processes and tackle root causes. Overall, this meeting may deepen institutional cooperation, influencing policy and operations in both countries across multiple sectors.
Statements from President Biden and Mexican President Andrés Manuel López Obrador Prior to the Bilateral Meeting
November 17, 2023
During a meeting at the Moscone Convention Center in San Francisco, President Biden and President López Obrador of Mexico discussed their countries' cooperation on various issues, including security, economic growth, supply chains, and migration. Biden thanked López Obrador for his leadership and cooperation, particularly on migration issues. López Obrador praised Biden for opening legal pathways for migration and not building walls and expressed his commitment to preventing drug trafficking. Both leaders emphasized the strong relationship between their countries.
Institutional Implications:
The Biden-López Obrador meeting signals a shift towards collaboration in U.S.-Mexico institutional dynamics. This change, emphasizing security, economic growth, supply chains, and migration, broadens the institutional agenda. The mutual recognition of leadership fosters trust, potentially enabling more effective collaboration. López Obrador's praise for Biden's migration approach hints at a shift towards humane policies, impacting institutions responsible for implementation. The commitment to preventing drug trafficking suggests increased cooperation among law enforcement agencies, potentially leading to operational changes and resource enhancements. This meeting indicates a potential shift in U.S.-Mexico institutional dynamics, affecting various policy areas and institutions emphasizing cooperation and mutual respect.
DECEMBER
Secretary of the Treasury Janet L. Yellen Traveled to Mexico
December 5-7, 2023
US Treasury Secretary Janet L. Yellen will visit Mexico City from December 5-7 to engage with government and private sector leaders. The visit aims to strengthen US-Mexico collaboration on countering fentanyl and illicit finance, deepening economic ties, and bolstering supply chain resilience. Yellen will also discuss the benefits of greater coordination on financial and regulatory policy. The visit follows the launch of the Treasury Counter Fentanyl Strike Force and builds on the joint commitment made by the US and Mexico to combat illicit drug trafficking.
Institutional Implications:
US Treasury Secretary Janet L. Yellen's visit to Mexico City aims to strengthen institutional ties, especially in countering fentanyl and illicit finance. The establishment of the Treasury Counter Fentanyl Strike Force signals a more assertive approach against drug trafficking, influencing global efforts. Discussions also focus on deepening economic ties, fortifying supply chains, and coordinating financial and regulatory policies. The visit holds the potential for stronger bilateral cooperation and enhanced institutional capacity to address shared challenges.
Summary of the 3rd Trilateral Fentanyl Committee Meeting Involving the U.S., Mexico, and Canada
December 19, 2023
Homeland Security Advisor Liz Sherwood-Randall hosted a virtual meeting of the Trilateral Fentanyl Committee (TFC) with her Mexican and Canadian counterparts. The TFC, established by the leaders of the three countries, aims to address the illicit fentanyl threat in North America. The meeting discussed progress on regulatory frameworks related to fentanyl production and shared information on illicit drug trends. The committee plans to meet in person in Mexico in 2024 to further counter the fentanyl issue.
Institutional Implications:
The Trilateral Fentanyl Committee's virtual meeting reflects collaborative efforts among the United States, Mexico, and Canada to combat the illicit fentanyl threat. This joint approach, supported by leaders, signals a high-level commitment to unified action and potentially more coordinated policies. Discussions on regulatory frameworks suggest a shift toward stricter controls on fentanyl production, indicating increased oversight and enforcement. The planned 2024 in-person meeting in Mexico underscores a long-term commitment to sustained cooperation, potentially influencing regulatory policies, law enforcement strategies, and international relations in addressing the fentanyl crisis.
