In a significant diplomatic development, Mexican President Andres Manuel Lopez Obrador is slated to meet Chinese President Xi Jinping during the Asia-Pacific Economic Cooperation (APEC) summit in San Francisco. This high-level meeting signifies a rare international trip for President Lopez Obrador, who has predominantly focused on domestic matters.
Additionally, the Mexican President is scheduled to hold talks with U.S. President Joe Biden on the sidelines of the APEC meetings, underlining the importance of Mexico’s relations with its North American neighbor.
Mexican Foreign Minister Alicia Barcena emphasized the significance of the meeting between President Lopez Obrador and President Xi, highlighting discussions on trade and the enhancement of bilateral supply chains. This face-to-face encounter is a pivotal moment, given China’s enduring interest in fostering close ties with Mexico.
Barcena further noted that economic relations with the United States would be central to discussions with President Biden, with billions of dollars in U.S. investments in Mexico being a key aspect.
Key topics on the agenda for the U.S.-Mexico talks include immigration, border security, and efforts to combat drug trafficking. Both sides are expected to explore strategies to better control the influx of precursors from Asia, which are used in the production of the lethal opioid fentanyl.
In addition to these engagements, President Lopez Obrador will also hold a bilateral meeting with Canada on Thursday afternoon, though specifics were not disclosed. However, a Mexican official confirmed that the meeting would be with Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau.
The APEC summit provides a valuable platform for leaders to address critical issues and strengthen regional and international relationships, underlining Mexico’s commitment to fostering cooperation and collaboration with its global counterparts.