Sheinbaum Discusses U.S.-Mexico Relations and Remittance Tax at Press Conference

President Claudia Sheinbaum’s Thursday press conference covered trade discussions with the U.S., the potential 3.5% tax on remittances, and the arms trafficking acknowledgment by U.S. officials. She addressed the deportation case of Jesus Muñoz Gutiérrez and reaffirmed her commitment to stay close to the public despite security concerns.

In her Thursday morning press conference, President Claudia Sheinbaum began the session at 8:30 a.m., noting that she had an early call with U.S. President Joe Biden to discuss ongoing trade matters. Sheinbaum emphasized the importance of these negotiations, particularly regarding existing tariffs on vehicles, steel, and aluminum, mentioning that Economy Minister Marcelo Ebrard would visit Washington, D.C., shortly for further discussions. “We’re continuing to talk about trade issues, … we’re still negotiating,” Sheinbaum stated, showcasing the positive communication between the two nations.

Furthermore, Sheinbaum addressed the U.S. House of Representatives’ approval of President Biden’s significant budget bill, also known as the “One Big Beautiful Bill.” This legislation, currently under consideration by the U.S. Senate, includes a proposed 3.5% tax on remittances sent from the United States by non-citizen immigrants, down from a previous 5%. Remittances, which amount to tens of billions of dollars flowing into Mexico annually, are critical for many families here. Sheinbaum spoke out against the tax, saying, “In any case, we don’t want there to be a tax.”

The Mexican government has put forth efforts to persuade U.S. legislators to remove this proposed tax completely. Last week, Sheinbaum referred to it as “unconstitutional” due to the potential for a double tax. At Thursday’s press conference, she reiterated her commitment. “We’re going to keep working, … we’re going to keep working so there is no tax on the remittances our compatriots send to their families in Mexico,” she asserted, while also noting her team’s diplomacy with both Republican and Democrat senators regarding this issue, though not having discussed it directly with the president so far.

On another topic, Sheinbaum highlighted the acknowledgment by U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio regarding the use of firearms by Mexican cartels that originate from the United States. This acknowledgment was a significant point for Sheinbaum, given that she had raised the arms trafficking issue during her initial conversation with Biden back when he was elected. “… The Trump administration is, perhaps, the first [U.S. government] that in effect acknowledges there is trafficking of weapons from the United States to Mexico and wants to combat it,” she emphasized,

Additionally, Sheinbaum addressed the controversial case involving a Mexican citizen, Jesus Muñoz Gutiérrez, who was deported from the U.S. to Africa. The individual, sentenced for second-degree murder, was intended to be deported to South Sudan along with several other inmates but was halted by a federal judge. The president disclosed that her government was not informed about this case beforehand. “If he wants to be repatriated, the United States would have to bring him to Mexico,” Sheinbaum explained, alluding to the ongoing review of the case.

Despite current global economic concerns, Sheinbaum stated that Mexico’s economic indicators remain positive. In fact, she pointed out that foreign direct investment in the first quarter of the year skyrocketed compared to last year, underscoring the growing confidence in Mexico as a favorable investment destination. “That means there is confidence in investing in our country,” she remarked.

Lastly, responding to concerns raised about increasing security for government officials given recent violent incidents, Sheinbaum firmly stated, “No,” indicating that there were no immediate plans to enhance security measures. She continued, saying, “One can’t move away from the people.” The president aims to maintain close ties with the citizens, echoing a sentiment of openness proffered by her predecessor.

To summarize, President Claudia Sheinbaum’s recent press conference emphasized several pressing issues, including ongoing trade negotiations with the U.S., the contentious proposed tax on remittances, and the acknowledgment of arms trafficking by U.S. officials. She addressed the case of Jesus Muñoz Gutiérrez, stressing the importance of communication regarding deportations. Lastly, in light of recent violence targeting officials, Sheinbaum reaffirmed her commitment to remain accessible to the public despite security concerns.

Original Source: mexiconewsdaily.com