During a significant diplomatic visit to Beijing, Mexico’s Foreign Affairs Minister Roberto Velasco engaged in discussions with Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi to fortify political and economic relations between their respective nations. Marking Velasco’s inaugural official trip to China, the meeting sought to enhance cooperation across various fields, including political, economic, cultural, and academic exchanges. The Mexican delegation emphasized the importance of mutual respect, sovereign equality, and non-interference as pillars of their bilateral relationship.
Central to their discussions was the aim to bolster the political consultation mechanism between the foreign ministries of both countries, thereby ensuring regular communication and the pursuit of tangible agreements. Mexico identified several priority areas for collaboration: health, education, scholarships, science and technology, environmental protection, rural development, and cultural exchanges. These areas are seen as vital for deepening the partnership between the two countries.
The backdrop of ongoing trade tensions provided a significant context for Velasco’s visit. Mexico’s recent imposition of higher tariffs in January on imports from nations lacking free-trade agreements, including China, has been a point of contention. With duties climbing to as much as 50% in certain sectors, Beijing has expressed concerns, although Mexico asserts that these measures are not directed at any particular country.
Velasco also underscored the importance of Mexico and China’s cooperation within multilateral platforms like the G20 and APEC. He expressed his appreciation for China’s upcoming role as the host of the APEC leaders’ summit in Shenzhen this November. Cultural collaboration featured in their discussions too, highlighted by a forthcoming major exhibition of Mexican archaeological and artistic pieces at the Shanghai Museum. Additionally, Velasco’s itinerary includes the inauguration of Mexico’s consulate in Chongqing, which signifies a step towards deeper bilateral engagement.