AMLO pauses relations with the embassies of the U.S. and Canada over judicial reform.

In an unexpected turn in Mexico's foreign policy, President Andrés Manuel López Obrador (AMLO) has decided to "pause" his relationship with the embassies of the United States and Canada. This decision comes in response to warnings from diplomats about the risks associated with the judicial reform proposed to be implemented in the country, which includes the popular election of judges, magistrates, and Supreme Court justices. During his morning press conference, López Obrador emphasized that the measure does not imply a cooling of bilateral relations in general, but is limited to the ambassadors of the United States, Ken Salazar, and Canada, Graeme C. Clark. "The relationship continues, but I hope that they will reaffirm their respect for Mexico's independence," the president expressed, showing his discontent with the stance taken by the diplomatic representatives. AMLO also noted that the pause reflects his commitment to national sovereignty and Mexico's independence. "The Constitution establishes in its Article 89 that the president must adhere to the principles of non-intervention," he declared. This statement aligns with his policy of defending the autonomy of the country's internal decisions, a stance he has maintained throughout his presidency. The judicial reform that has generated this controversy stipulates that, starting in 2025, Mexican citizens will be able to elect their judges and magistrates. This measure has sparked intense debate in the political and social spheres, with divided opinions on its advisability and potential impact on the Mexican judicial system. However, López Obrador defended the reform as a step toward the democratization of justice in Mexico. In turn, the Mexican president addressed the ambassadors by reminding them that their intervention in the country’s internal affairs is inappropriate. "How can we allow the ambassador to say that what we are doing is wrong?" he rhetorically asked, while reaffirming the need for decisions regarding the judicial system to be made exclusively by Mexicans. In this context, the relationship between Mexico and its northern neighbors is not entirely affected; AMLO clarified that the pause is specific to the ambassadors, suggesting that communication at the governmental level could continue. Nonetheless, the situation highlights the tensions that can arise between countries when sensitive topics like judicial reform are addressed. Additionally, the pause in relations with the embassies coincides with other challenges facing the country, such as the migration crisis. In this regard, it has been announced that migrants will be able to manage their asylum appointments with the United States from Mexico's southern border, which could influence migration dynamics in the region. AMLO has expressed his commitment to addressing the situation of migrants and seeking joint solutions with the United States. This announcement regarding the management of asylum appointments could be interpreted as an attempt by the Mexican government to mitigate pressures and criticisms related to its handling of migration. However, it remains unclear how these efforts will be coordinated in light of the current tension with the embassies. The implications of this pause in diplomatic relations are still uncertain. Some analysts suggest that it could lead to greater isolation for Mexico on the international stage, while others believe it could strengthen the country's position in defense of its sovereignty. This episode will undoubtedly mark a new chapter in Mexican foreign policy and its relationship with its commercial and strategic partners in North America. As this situation unfolds, it will be crucial to observe how the embassies of the United States and Canada respond to AMLO's declaration. The diplomatic response to these tensions could define the future of collaboration on issues that are vital for both Mexico and its northern neighbors. The international community hopes that, despite the differences, a path toward understanding and mutual respect between nations can be found.