Mexican President Claudia Sheinbaum declared Mexico will not use an ‘eye for an eye’ strategy in response to U.S. tariffs. She favors dialogue over conflict while awaiting details of President Trump’s announced tariffs, which may affect Mexico’s economy significantly due to its close trade ties. Sheinbaum also addressed the need for cooperation on immigration without subordination to U.S. authority.
Mexican President Claudia Sheinbaum announced on Tuesday that Mexico would not adopt an “eye for an eye” approach in response to potential higher import tariffs from the United States. This statement comes ahead of President Donald Trump’s expected announcement of reciprocating tariffs, which may impose a 25 percent tax on imported automobiles and auto parts.
While Mexico remains committed to prioritizing dialogue and a measured response, Sheinbaum emphasized, “We do not believe in an eye for an eye, a tooth for a tooth, because that always leads to a bad situation.” She acknowledged that while Mexico will respond to the U.S. actions, it is crucial to maintain open lines of communication.
President Trump has designated Wednesday as America’s “Liberation Day,” during which he is anticipated to unveil reciprocal tariffs aimed at correcting trade imbalances. Mexico, as the largest trading partner of the U.S., is particularly vulnerable to these tariffs, considering U.S. imports account for nearly 80 percent of Mexican exports, including around three million automobiles annually.
Sheinbaum stated that her administration would withhold its response until the specifics of the tariffs are revealed. “We don’t know exactly what will be announced on April 2; no nation in the world knows,” she remarked at her press conference.
With respect to immigration issues, Sheinbaum mentioned Mexico’s readiness to collaborate with the U.S., but underscored that her government would not be subservient. She declared, “The president answers to one authority only, and that is the people of Mexico.” Amid these tensions, U.S. Homeland Security chief Kristi Noem visited last week to present a list of requests concerning migration issues, especially regarding Mexico’s border with Guatemala, a significant transit point for migrants from South America.
In conclusion, Mexico’s President Claudia Sheinbaum has articulated a firm stance against retaliatory tariffs in response to U.S. import taxes. She emphasizes the importance of dialogue over conflict and stresses that Mexico will respond based on the specifics of any proposed tariffs. The ongoing relationship between Mexico and the U.S. remains crucial, especially regarding trade and immigration, underscoring Mexico’s vulnerability amid heightened tensions.
Original Source: newscentral.africa
