Mexico Issues Diplomatic Note to US Regarding Potential Military Base Near the Border

Synopsis

Mexico has formally communicated to the US regarding its considerations to establish a military base near the border, aimed at curbing irregular migration. President Claudia Sheinbaum emphasizes the importance of respecting Mexico's sovereignty and human rights.

Key Takeaways

Mexico expresses concerns over possible US military base.
President Claudia Sheinbaum emphasizes respect for sovereignty.
US to withdraw 109,651 acres of federal land.
Focus on addressing root causes of migration.
Importance of human rights in border policies.

Mexico City, April 17 (NationPress) Mexico has sent a diplomatic note to the United States following reports that Washington may be contemplating the establishment of a new military base close to the shared border to deter irregular migration, as stated by Mexican President Claudia Sheinbaum.

During her daily press conference on Wednesday, Sheinbaum recognized that the decision is a sovereign issue for the US within its own territory, yet she emphasized that it must not affect Mexico or infringe upon its jurisdiction, according to Xinhua news agency.

"We respect their autonomy, but we anticipate the same level of coordination and cooperation on security matters that we have maintained thus far," she remarked.

A reporter inquired about the US's alleged plan to set up a military base on its southern border with Mexico.

This question surfaced after US Secretary of the Interior Doug Burgum visited New Mexico on Tuesday to "announce the emergency withdrawal and transfer" of administrative jurisdiction over nearly 109,651 acres of federal land along the US-Mexico border, as per an Interior Department statement.

"... The Department of the Army requested this withdrawal and transfer on an emergency basis to facilitate increased regular patrols by federal personnel, the construction of infrastructure to prevent unlawful entry, disrupt foreign terrorist threats to the US, and to curb illegal cross-border activities, including unlawful migration, narcotics trafficking, migrant smuggling, and human trafficking," the statement detailed.

While the exact purpose of the proposed US military deployment remains uncertain, Sheinbaum highlighted that Mexico is focused on tackling the root causes of migration and expects any actions taken to respect human rights and avoid detrimental effects on border communities.

The President noted that similar US troop deployments have taken place in the past and reiterated that Mexico is in continual communication with Washington to avert any disruption in bilateral relations.

According to US media, US President Donald Trump issued a memorandum to four federal department heads on April 11, instructing them to permit the military to utilize and assume jurisdiction over federal land along the US-Mexico border, with the Trump administration currently assessing the establishment of a military base in the area.