Sheinbaum and Macron strengthen Mexico–France alliance amid regional and trade tensions
Mexican President Claudia Sheinbaum and French President Emmanuel Macron pledged to deepen political, economic and cultural ties during Macron’s state visit to Mexico City — the first official visit by a French leader in over a decade.
The meeting, held at the National Palace, marked a renewed push for cooperation between Mexico and Europe at a time of heightened tensions with the United States.
Macron reaffirmed France’s commitment to international law and sovereignty when addressing US policies in the region. “France is committed to the sovereignty of states,” he said, “and the fight against drug trafficking is a shared matter that must take place with mutual respect and within the framework of international law.” He added that France seeks to strengthen cooperation in customs and security, “always fully respecting national sovereignty.”
The French leader also commented on trade issues, reiterating his opposition to the current version of the EU–Mercosur agreement. “This agreement, in its current form, is not acceptable for France,” he said, “as it does not guarantee the protection of the agricultural sector as we require.” Macron noted that Paris has urged the European Commission to propose a new version with stronger safeguards. He also announced the relaunch of the Franco-Mexican Strategic Council to boost investment and “give greater visibility to investors on both sides.”
President Sheinbaum highlighted the economic and historical importance of the alliance, noting that next year Mexico will renew its trade agreement with the European Union while celebrating 200 years of diplomatic relations with France. “This will provide many opportunities for cooperation in technological and innovation development such as digital and renewable energy,” she said.
Cultural diplomacy also took centre stage, with both leaders announcing a reciprocal exhibition of the Codex of Azcatitlan in Mexico and the Boturini Codex in France. “These codices are the written voice of our ancestors and the deep root of our identity,” Sheinbaum stated. The meeting concluded with a call to continue expanding collaboration between Mexico and France, reinforcing a partnership grounded in shared values of freedom, dignity and mutual respect.
This story is written and edited by the Global South World team, you can contact us here.
