Mexico‘s Economy Minister: No Point in Engaging Trump’s Remarks, Let’s Focus on Cooperation
Mexico City — Mexico’s government will not engage in a tit-for-tat response to every statement made by U.S. President-elect Donald Trump, according to Economy Secretary Marcelo Ebrard Casaubón. Speaking at the University of Guadalajara’s "Economy, Morals, and Work" forum, Ebrard emphasized the need for both nations to work together rather than trading barbs.
Trump’s recent comments, suggesting Mexico is governed by drug cartels and proposing to rename the Gulf of Mexico the "Gulf of America," have drawn criticism from Mexican officials. However, Ebrard chose not to retaliate, stating, "It’s like saying they’re governed by the state of Pennsylvania. It’s not productive; let’s focus on how we can cooperate."
Ebrard suggested that if the U.S. truly wants to help combat Mexico’s drug cartels, it should start by curbing the flow of weapons across the border. He also called for patience, as Trump has not yet taken office, and the world awaits concrete policies from the incoming administration. The uncertainty surrounding Trump’s plans, Ebrard noted, is damaging to both Mexico’s and the global economy, given the U.S.’s status as the world’s largest economy.
Mexico’s strategy, Ebrard revealed, will involve "Mexican wisdom, cool-headedness, and intelligence," but he declined to elaborate further on their specific plans. The secretary’s remarks underscore Mexico’s commitment to maintaining a constructive dialogue with the U.S., despite Trump’s sometimes controversial statements.
As Mexico and the U.S. prepare for Trump’s presidency, both countries must navigate a complex relationship that touches on numerous economic, security, and political issues. By choosing to focus on cooperation rather than engagement in a war of words, Mexico signals its intent to work with the U.S. to find common ground and address shared challenges.
