In a bid to enhance political and economic relations amid current trade disputes, Mexico’s Foreign Affairs Minister Roberto Velasco held talks with his Chinese counterpart Wang Yi in Beijing. This marks Velasco’s inaugural official visit to China, where discussions centered on broadening exchanges across political, economic, cultural, and academic domains. Mexico underscored the principles of mutual respect, equal sovereignty, and non-interference as foundational to their partnership.
A key focus of the meeting was the reinforcement of the political consultation framework between the foreign ministries of both nations, ensuring consistent dialogue and the pursuit of concrete agreements. Mexico has pinpointed several areas for potential collaboration, including health, education, scholarships, science and technology, environmental protection, rural development, and cultural exchanges, as areas ripe for development.
Trade tensions form a significant context for the visit, with Mexico having implemented higher tariffs in January on imports from countries lacking free-trade agreements, notably affecting China with tariffs reaching up to 50% in various sectors. While Beijing has expressed concerns over these measures, Mexico asserts that the tariffs are not targeted at any specific nation.
Velasco also emphasized the cooperation between Mexico and China in international forums such as the G20 and APEC. He expressed appreciation for China’s upcoming role as host of the APEC leaders’ summit in Shenzhen in November, highlighting the importance of such multilateral platforms for collaboration.
The ministers also explored cultural cooperation, including plans for a major exhibition of Mexican archaeological and artistic works at the Shanghai Museum. During his stay in China, Velasco will also oversee the opening of Mexico’s new consulate in Chongqing, further cementing bilateral ties.