Report| July-September 2023
The Center for Binational Institutions is devoted to promoting a better understanding of the bilateral institutions between Mexico and the United States. Our quarterly report presents the relevant events between US-MEXICO bilateral institutions.
JULY
1) Assistant Secretary Todd D. Robinson Discusses Secretary's Involvement in Virtual Ministerial to Launch Global Coalition Against Synthetic Drug Threats
July 6, 2023 Link
Assistant Secretary of State for International Narcotics and Law Enforcement Todd Robinson held a call to preview the Secretary's participation in a virtual ministerial to launch the Global Coalition to Address Synthetic Drug Threats. The coalition aims to unite countries worldwide to prevent the illicit manufacture and trafficking of synthetic drugs, identify emerging drug trends, and respond effectively to their public health impacts. Robinson emphasized the grave risk that synthetic drugs such as fentanyl and methamphetamine pose to the health and security of citizens in the U.S. and other countries. Robinson expressed gratitude to international partners who agreed to join the coalition and emphasized the importance of global cooperation in addressing the synthetic drug crisis.
Institutional Implications: Assistant Secretary Robinson's participation in the virtual ministerial highlights institutional collaboration on addressing the synthetic drug crisis. Establishing a global coalition reflects an institutional approach to combating the production and trafficking of synthetic drugs.
2) U.S. Foreign Secretary Antony J. Blinken; Mexican Foreign Secretary Alicia Bárcena; U.S. Secretary of Commerce Gina Raimondo, Mexican Secretary of Economy Raquel Buenrostro, and U.S. Trade Representative Katherine Tai Joint Press Event
July 6, 2023 Link
U.S. and Mexican officials met in Washington to discuss trade, economic growth, and border security as part of the U.S.-Mexico high-level economic dialogue. U.S. Secretary of State Antony Blinken, Commerce Secretary Gina Raimondo, and U.S. Trade Representative Katherine Tai co-hosted the meetings. The discussions focused on making North America the most dynamic and prosperous economic region globally, addressing the root causes of irregular migration, attracting new investment in emerging technologies, and strengthening border infrastructure and coordination.
Institutional Implications: This meeting prior to the High-Level Economic Dialogue signifies institutional efforts to enhance trade and economic cooperation. The discussions on border security, economic growth, and trade reflect the institutional mechanisms to strengthen binational economic relations. The commitment to addressing the illegal drug trade and gun flow demonstrates a shared institutional agenda in tackling security challenges.
3) Special Envoy Stern Travels to Mexico City for LGBTQI+ Matters
Jessica Stern, U.S. Special Envoy to Advance the Human Rights of LGBTQI+ Persons, delivered a keynote address at the Conference of LGBTI Political Leaders of the Americas and the Caribbean in Mexico City. The conference aims to promote equality and democracy by sharing best practices and advocating for LGBTQI+ rights across the Western Hemisphere. In addition to her speech, Stern also met with LGBTQI+ political leaders and activists during her visit.
Institutional Implications: The visit of U.S. Special Envoy Jessica Stern to Mexico City demonstrates institutionalized cooperation on LGBTQI+ rights. Her meetings with political leaders and activists underline the institutional commitment to advancing human rights and equality in both countries.
4) Mexico's Government Presented Oral Arguments in U.S. Court of Appeals Amid Ongoing Lawsuit Against Gun Companies
July 24, 2023 Link
Mexico presented oral arguments in the U.S. Court of Appeals for the First Circuit in its ongoing lawsuit against gun companies. Mexico argued that the U.S. law granting immunity to gunmakers, and dealers does not apply to damages caused in Mexican territory. The lawsuit seeks to reverse a previous ruling that dismissed the case based on the Protection of Lawful Commerce in Arms Act (PLCAA). A panel heard Mexico's arguments of judges, and if successful, the case will return to the lower court for further judgment. The lawsuit has received support from various actors and countries.
Institutional Implications: Mexico's lawsuit against gun companies and its presentation of oral arguments in a U.S. Court of Appeals highlight institutionalized efforts to seek legal remedies for issues affecting Mexico. The case demonstrates the importance of legal channels in addressing cross-border challenges.
5) U.S. Deputy Secretary Verma's Trip to Mexico
July 24, 2023 Link
Deputy Secretary of State for Management and Resources Richard R. Verma traveled to Mexico City and Ciudad Juárez, Mexico, from July 24-26. In Mexico City, he attended the second meeting of the Trilateral Fentanyl Committee, where he discussed coordination on combatting the synthetic drug threat, drug demand, public health, drug trafficking modes and methods, and illicit finance. He also met with Mexican government officials to discuss migration and expanding access to lawful pathways. In Ciudad Juárez, he visited with migration stakeholders on both sides of the border.
Institutional Implications: Deputy Secretary Verma's trip signifies ongoing institutional engagement on various issues, including migration and drug trafficking. His meetings with Mexican officials demonstrate the institutional commitment to addressing these shared challenges. The trilateral meeting reflects institutionalized cooperation mechanisms for addressing the synthetic drug threat.
6) Collaborative Measures by Mexico and the U.S. to Combat Illicit Fentanyl, Disrupt Arms Trafficking, and Humanely Manage Migration
July 24, 2023 Link
President Andrés Manuel López Obrador and senior Mexican officials hosted a U.S. delegation to discuss cooperation on various issues, including combating illicit fentanyl, arms trafficking, managing migration, and modernizing the shared border. The leaders reaffirmed their commitment to joint efforts in combating drug traffickers, disrupting the supply of chemicals used for illicit fentanyl, and preventing the trafficking of narcotics across the border. They also discussed regional migration and committed to expanding legal pathways and joint development work in Central America. Additionally, they pledged to continue modernizing infrastructure projects that benefit both nations and strengthen bilateral relations.
Institutional Implications: This collaborative effort between Mexico and the U.S. highlights the institutional commitment to addressing multiple security and humanitarian challenges. The joint commitment to combating drug trafficking and managing migration reflects the institutions' focus on addressing shared issues comprehensively. The pledge to modernize infrastructure projects demonstrates ongoing institutional collaboration to improve border security and trade relations.
7) Second Trilateral Fentanyl Committee Meeting Results in Joint Statement from Canada, Mexico, and the U.S.
July 25, 2023 Link
Mexico's Secretary of Security Rosa Icela Rodriguez hosted a virtual meeting with the U.S. Homeland Security Advisor Dr. Elizabeth Sherwood-Randall and Canada’s National Security and Intelligence Advisor Jody Thomas to discuss the Trilateral Fentanyl Committee's efforts to combat the trafficking of synthetic drugs. The three co-chairs reaffirmed their commitment to jointly confront the issue. They discussed steps such as prosecuting drug traffickers, targeting precursor chemicals, preventing drug trafficking across borders, and promoting public health services. They also agreed to create an expert working group and an agile mechanism to share emerging drug trends. The three countries will present progress at the next meeting of the Global Coalition to Address Synthetic Drug Threats.
Institutional Implications: The trilateral committee represents an important institutional mechanism for addressing the shared issue of synthetic drug trafficking. The U.S., Canada, and Mexico are fostering deeper cooperation by reaffirming their commitment to jointly confront the problem. Establishing expert working groups and agile mechanisms reflects a standardized approach to information sharing and collaborative efforts to combat drug trafficking across borders.
8) National Security Advisor Jake Sullivan's Statement on the Legal Pathways Initiative with Mexico
July 28, 2023 Link
The U.S. is announcing its support for an international multipurpose space in southern Mexico, providing new refugee and labor options for vulnerable individuals in Mexico. The U.S. also commits to accepting refugee resettlement referrals from qualified individuals from Cuba, Haiti, Nicaragua, and Venezuela who are already in Mexico. This is part of a series of successful legal pathways initiatives that President Biden and President Lopez Obrador agreed upon. The cooperation between the U.S. and Mexico aims to manage the shared border humanely and orderly, emphasizing the importance of legal pathways and discouraging illegal entry.
Institutional Implications: This initiative highlights strong collaboration between the U.S. and Mexico in managing migration. By committing to legal pathways for refugees and labor opportunities for vulnerable individuals, both governments are working to address migration challenges comprehensively. This institutional cooperation emphasizes the importance of managing the shared border humanely and legally, reflecting a joint commitment to border security while upholding humanitarian values.
AUGUST
9) Mexico and the U.S. reaffirm their dedication to implementing the comprehensive sanitation program for Tijuana, B.C.-San Diego, CA
August 7, 2023 Link
Officials from the Governments of Mexico and the U.S. met to reaffirm their commitment to implementing comprehensive border sanitation projects in the Tijuana-San Diego region. These projects carried out under the International Boundary and Water Commission, aim to improve water quality, and prevent wastewater spills that affect the Tijuana River and Pacific Ocean beaches. The projects include expanding wastewater treatment plants, rehabilitating sewage lines, and upgrading pumping plants. Both countries expressed their dedication to collaboration and delivering concrete results for the benefit of their societies.
Institutional Implications: The commitment to implementing sanitation projects under the International Boundary and Water Commission highlights institutional cooperation to address environmental and public health issues along the border. It underscores the importance of bilateral institutions in resolving cross-border challenges.
10) Alicia Bárcena, Foreign Secretary, is set to embark on an inaugural trip to Washington, D.C.
August 9, 2023 Link
Foreign Secretary Alicia Bárcena Ibarra had her first visit to Washington, D.C. During her visit, she attended meetings with U.S. government officials, including Secretaries Blinken and Mayorkas and National Security Advisor Jake Sullivan. She also met with Hispanic and immigrant rights organizations and leaders of the Mexican community. The purpose of the visit was to discuss important bilateral issues, strengthen dialogue and ties with the Mexican community in the U.S., and highlight Mexico's contribution to the well-being of the U.S. and North America.
Institutional Implications: Foreign Secretary Alicia Bárcena's visit to Washington, D.C., signifies institutionalized diplomatic engagement between Mexico and the U.S. The meetings with U.S. government officials and community leaders reflect the institutional channels through which bilateral issues are discussed and addressed.
11) Summary of Meeting between National Security Advisor Jake Sullivan and Mexico's Secretary of Foreign Affairs Alicia Bárcena Ibarra
August 10, 2023 Link
National Security Advisor Jake Sullivan met with Mexican Secretary of Foreign Affairs Alicia Bárcena Ibarra and Mexican officials at the White House. They discussed various issues, including migration, border enforcement, arms trafficking, and drug flow. They also talked about establishing a multipurpose space in southern Mexico for refugees and labor pathways. Additionally, they discussed promoting inclusive prosperity in North America and mobilizing financing from the World Bank.
Institutional Implications: The meeting signifies a strong commitment from both the U.S. and Mexican governments to address critical issues affecting both nations. By discussing migration, border enforcement, arms trafficking, and drug flow, both countries recognize the need for binational cooperation to manage shared challenges. The potential establishment of a multipurpose space in southern Mexico reflects a joint effort to address migration issues humanely and collaboratively.
SEPTEMBER
12) Archaeological artifacts from California to be repatriated by Mexico
September 19, 2023 Link
Mexico has announced the repatriation of 1,294 archaeological artifacts from California, including every day and ceremonial objects such as figurines, necklaces, and wind instruments. The repatriation is being done to commemorate Mexican Independence Day and the start of Hispanic Heritage Month in the U.S.. The San Bernardino County Museum returned the artifacts and will be repatriated through diplomatic channels. This effort is part of Mexico's ongoing work to combat the illicit trafficking of cultural property and reclaim artifacts that are part of its national heritage.
Institutional Implications: The repatriation of artifacts indicates institutional collaboration between Mexico and the U.S. in addressing cultural property issues. It demonstrates an institutional commitment to combatting illicit trafficking of cultural heritage and preserving national heritage.
13) Celebration of the 15th U.S. and 2nd Canadian Labor Rights Weeks
September 20, 2023 Link
The conclusion of the 15th U.S. and 2nd Canadian Labor Rights Weeks saw almost 300,000 people attending online and in-person events. Over 2,687 individual meetings resulted in the identification of 467 potential protection cases. The Labor Rights Weeks are an important part of Mexico's strategy to protect its citizens abroad. The events aimed to empower the Mexican community in the U.S. and Canada by increasing their knowledge of their labor rights. The government of Mexico reaffirmed its commitment to defending and promoting the respect of Mexicans abroad, particularly in relation to their labor rights.
Institutional Implications: The Labor Rights Weeks represent an institutionalized effort by Mexico to protect the rights of its citizens abroad, including in the U.S. and Canada. Identifying potential protection cases underscores the importance of institutional mechanisms for safeguarding the rights of Mexican nationals working in other countries.
14) U.S.-Mexico High-Level Economic Dialogue
September 28, 2023 Link
Senior government officials from the U.S. and Mexico met in Washington, D.C., for the third U.S.-Mexico High-Level Economic Dialogue (HLED) meeting. The HLED aims to deepen economic integration and cooperation between the two countries. U.S.-Mexico total trade in goods and services reached an all-time high of $864 billion in 2022. The HLED focuses on four pillars: building together, promoting sustainable economic and social development, securing future prosperity, and investing in people. The agenda included strengthening supply chains, supporting economic development in Central America and southern Mexico, and enhancing workforce development. The HLED also addressed environmental issues, cybersecurity, and medical device and pharmaceutical trade. The U.S. and Mexico are committed to holding annual HLED meetings to strengthen their partnership and achieve greater regional prosperity.
Institutional Implications: The U.S.-Mexico High-Level Economic Dialogue represents a standardized platform for addressing economic integration and cooperation. The four pillars of the dialogue emphasize the institutional commitment to strengthening economic ties, fostering development, and addressing environmental and workforce-related challenges.
15) US-Mexico CEO Dialogue
September 29, 2023 Link
Mexican and U.S. business leaders and government officials gathered at the 13th U.S.-Mexico CEO Dialogue to discuss ways to enhance economic growth, competitiveness, trade, and investment between the two countries. The event, held on September 28, included high-ranking officials from both nations and executives from various companies. The CEOs called for measures such as ensuring compliance with the USMCA, improving the business climate, promoting cross-border trade, investing in clean energy, and expanding connectivity and financial inclusion. They emphasized the importance of bilateral cooperation and dialogue to attract nearshoring and enhance regional economic integration.
Institutional Implications: The CEO Dialogue highlights institutionalized collaboration between business leaders and government officials from both countries. The discussions encompass trade, investment, clean energy, and connectivity, reflecting institutional mechanisms for promoting economic growth, competitiveness, and trade between the U.S. and Mexico.
