Mexican President to Meet with U.S. Counterpart at APEC Summit
Mexico City Embraces Diplomatic U-Turn
Mexican President Andres Manuel Lopez Obrador announced on Monday that he has had a change of heart and will now meet with his U.S. counterpart, Joe Biden, at the Asia-Pacific Economic Cooperation (APEC) summit in San Francisco. The meeting is scheduled to take place between November 14-15. This decision comes after Lopez Obrador initially indicated in August that he would meet Biden, only to later backtrack in September.
In a surprising twist, Lopez Obrador explained during a regular press conference that he reconsidered his position due to Biden’s invitation and the importance of maintaining strong ties with the United States. He emphasized that a positive relationship with the United States is beneficial for Mexico. “A very good relationship with the United States is good for us,” he stated.
Strained Relations with Peru
Lopez Obrador’s previous decision not to attend the APEC summit was influenced by his differences with the current government in Peru, which is set to chair the forum after the United States. The strained relations between Mexico and Peru began deteriorating in December when Peru ordered the Mexican ambassador to leave Lima. This was a result of Lopez Obrador’s forceful condemnation of the ouster of former Peruvian President Pedro Castillo, who shares a leftist ideology with the Mexican leader.
A Change of Heart
What prompted Lopez Obrador’s u-turn? Last week, the Mexican President held meetings with a delegation of senior U.S. officials, including U.S. Secretary of State Antony Blinken, in Mexico City. These discussions likely played a significant role in reshaping Lopez Obrador’s decision, leading to his willingness to engage in a dialogue with Biden at the APEC summit.
The decision to meet with Biden not only signifies a renewed commitment to bilateral relations but also highlights the importance of open communication and collaboration between the two neighboring nations.
In conclusion, Lopez Obrador’s decision to meet with Biden at the APEC summit demonstrates the significance of fostering positive ties with the United States. This unexpected diplomatic u-turn underscores the importance of maintaining fruitful relationships for the mutual benefit of both Mexico and the United States.
