Mexico has agreed to send water to the U.S. to resolve treaty shortfalls after Trump threatened tariffs. This decision follows accusations that Mexico was failing to meet obligations under a 1944 agreement regarding water sharing. The U.S. State Department welcomed the move, stating it would benefit farmers in Texas.
In a significant move, Mexico has agreed to send water to the United States to address existing shortfalls in accordance with a longstanding treaty, amid rising tensions over water resources. The decision was announced on Monday, following threats from President Donald Trump who asserted that Mexico was “stealing” water from U.S. farmers in Texas. This stems from a 1944 agreement that facilitates water sharing from the Colorado River and the Rio Grande, which runs along the border of the two nations.
The Mexican foreign ministry confirmed that water from the Rio Grande will be dispatched immediately. Further transfers will also be made during the upcoming rainy season, highlighting Mexico’s commitment to upholding its obligations under the 1944 treaty, which has notably benefited the development of its northern border.
The U.S. State Department expressed its approval of the agreement, stating that this action would aid American farmers, ranchers, and municipalities in Texas’ Rio Grande Valley, helping alleviate water shortages that have arisen from treaty violations. They also extended gratitude to Mexican President Claudia Sheinbaum for her role in resolving the issue.
Moreover, both nations have agreed to create a long-term strategy to ensure compliance with treaty obligations while resolving outstanding water debts. Current data shows that Mexico owes over 1.55 billion cubic meters of water to the United States, as the current treaty cycle is set to expire in October.
Earlier this year, the U.S. declined Mexico’s request for special water deliveries for the first time, due to ongoing shortages. This water dispute is occurring against the backdrop of escalating tensions related to trade, migration, and drug trafficking. The Colorado River has seen severe water depletion, worsening the situation, as agricultural demands continue to escalate.
U.S. farmers have criticized Mexico for its late compliance within treaty cycles, while Mexico contends that the Rio Grande basin has faced severe drought conditions for the past two decades, culminating in extreme drought in 2023. This water crisis has previously led to conflict, including protests in 2020 when farmers in Chihuahua seized a dam to prevent water allocation to the U.S., resulting in tragic clashes.
Mexico’s decision to provide water to the United States demonstrates a commitment to international agreements under pressure from diplomatic and economic threats. The recent agreement marks a potential reduction in tensions over water resources, showing reciprocity amid the complexities of trade relations and shared environmental challenges. As both countries move forward with creating a sustainable long-term plan, the impacts on regional farmers and water management strategies will remain closely watched.
Original Source: www.france24.com
