President Sheinbaum Discusses Tariffs, Remittances Tax, and Security Measures
During her Thursday press conference, President Claudia Sheinbaum discussed negotiations with the U.S. on trade tariffs, expressed opposition to a proposed remittance tax, highlighted arms trafficking concerns, addressed the deportation case of a Mexican citizen, and reaffirmed her commitment to engaging with the public despite security risks.
In a recent press conference, President Claudia Sheinbaum shared updates on her discussions with U.S. President Donald Trump regarding tariffs and trade issues, noting a good relationship exists between the two governments. Sheinbaum emphasized the ongoing negotiations to reduce tariffs further, with Economy Minister Marcelo Ebrard set to meet U.S. officials in Washington D.C. “We’re still negotiating,” she said, underlining that she has spoke to Trump multiple times since taking office.
Sheinbaum also addressed the U.S. House of Representatives’ approval of Trump’s significant budget bill, which proposes a controversial 3.5% tax on remittances sent by non-citizen immigrants. The tax rate was reduced from an earlier proposal of 5%. The funds from these remittances, which total billions annually, are crucial for families in Mexico. “In any case, we don’t want there to be a tax,” she said, confirming that her government is actively lobbying against it.
The Mexican President characterized the proposed remittances tax as “unconstitutional,” asserting that a double tax would be unfair. “We’re going to continue speaking with Republican and Democrat senators about why it’s not good for there to be a tax on remittances,” Sheinbaum stated, indicating that further discussions with Trump may occur.
On arms trafficking, Sheinbaum praised U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio for acknowledging that firearms made in the U.S. are used by Mexican cartels. She pointed out that this issue has been on their agenda since her first conversation with Trump after his election. “The Trump administration is perhaps the first [U.S. government] to recognize this problem,” Sheinbaum noted, referencing recent U.S. weapon seizures linked to this issue.
As for the case of a Mexican national deported by the U.S. to Africa, Sheinbaum shed light on Jesus Muñoz Gutiérrez, who was sentenced to life for second-degree murder. The U.S. intended to deport him to South Sudan, but federal judges intervened. “The entire case is being reviewed,” she said, adding that any repatriation of Muñoz to Mexico would likely come with conditions.
Sheinbaum also touched on the overall investment landscape in Mexico, asserting that the foreign direct investment for the year’s first quarter has shown positive indicators despite global economic volatility. “That means there is confidence in investing in our country,” she emphasized.
In a related note, following the tragic murder of two aides in Mexico City, when asked about bolstering security for officials, including herself, Sheinbaum simply replied, “No, we don’t plan to.” Instead, she emphasized the importance of remaining connected to the public. “The day we distance ourselves from the people is the day we stop being a government of the people and for the people,” she stated, reinforcing her commitment to public accessibility, especially on weekends.
This press conference illuminated Sheinbaum’s stance on various pressing issues from trade negotiations to government safety protocols, reflecting her unyielding connection to the citizenry amid underlying threats that loom over political figures in Mexico.
In summary, President Claudia Sheinbaum emphasized ongoing negotiations with the U.S. regarding tariffs, while actively opposing a proposed remittance tax that could impact many families in Mexico. She highlighted the issues of arms trafficking and discussed the deportation case of a Mexican citizen to Africa. Additionally, though the security of officials is under scrutiny following recent murders, she remains dedicated to engaging directly with the public, showcasing her government’s approach amid challenges.
Original Source: mexiconewsdaily.com
