### Sheinbaum Supports “Pause” in Relations with U.S. and Canadian Embassies; Xóchitl and FCH Oppose
The national president-elect of Mexico, Claudia Sheinbaum, has backed President Andrés Manuel López Obrador’s decision to pause the relationship between the Mexican government and the embassies of the United States and Canada. This decision came as a response to criticisms from the diplomatic representatives of both countries regarding the proposed reforms to Mexico’s Federal Judiciary (PJF), which were being debated in the Mexican Congress.
“This is a decision by the President of the Republic, who is today the constitutional president, in response to the affront made by the ambassadors of both the United States and Canada,” Sheinbaum stated during a press conference held at her transition headquarters in Iztapalapa.
Sheinbaum clarified that while the relationship with the U.S. remains good, there are certain matters, such as the judicial reform, that are solely Mexico’s concern. She reiterated that such decisions currently fall under López Obrador’s purview until she officially takes office on October 1, 2024. She also confirmed no current plans to meet with U.S. Ambassador Kenneth Lee Salazar.
“We have a good relationship with the United States and Canada, who are our commercial partners. There is dialogue, but certain issues must be decided exclusively by Mexicans, such as the configuration of the Judicial Power,” Sheinbaum asserted.
She emphasized her support for the Mexican President but insisted that diplomatic respect and non-interference are paramount.
On the other hand, Bertha Xóchitl Gálvez Ruiz, a former presidential candidate from the coalition “Fuerza y Corazón por México,” criticized the decision, warning it could have severe economic repercussions. Former President Felipe Calderón echoed similar sentiments, calling it a “suicidal economic decision.”
López Obrador previously announced the pause following statements from U.S. Ambassador Salazar and Canadian Ambassador Graeme C. Clark, condemning the judicial reform. Salazar mentioned that the reform, which includes the direct election of judges, posed risks to democracy and economic integration. Clark shared concerns from Canadian investors regarding the reform’s potential impact.
During his routine press conference, López Obrador reiterated that foreign ambassadors have limits set by the Mexican Constitution and noted that while the diplomatic relationship continues, a pause implies taking necessary time to reassess the situation. He stressed the importance of respecting Mexico’s sovereignty, an expectation he has from the upcoming administration under Sheinbaum.
### Additional Insights
In a related development, international media has highlighted various perspectives on this diplomatic tension. **BBC News** reported that this “pause” could strain U.S.-Mexican economic ties, a critical element in the regional trade under the USMCA agreement. Meanwhile, **Reuters** reported that Canadian officials are urging Mexico to re-engage quickly to maintain investor confidence, particularly in key sectors such as mining and energy.
**CNN** added commentary on the wider implications for North American cooperation, especially given the geopolitical sensitivity around judicial independence and governance. Local Mexican news platforms have echoed calls for prudence and diplomacy to ensure that these relationships, vital for Mexico’s economic stability, are not jeopardized.
**The New York Times** commented on historical precedents, noting that diplomatic tensions of this kind are not entirely new but underscore the complexities in balancing national sovereignty with international cooperation.
### Conclusion
While the future of Mexico’s diplomatic relations remains uncertain, clear lines of communication and mutual respect for sovereignty will be essential in navigating these current challenges. All eyes are now on Claudia Sheinbaum as she prepares to assume the presidency and steer these crucial international partnerships.