Mexican President Andrés Manuel López Obrador announced that Mexico is seeking an agreement with the US to deport asylum-seekers and migrants directly to their countries of origin instead of sending them to Mexico.
US Policy Changes and Mexico’s Response
This announcement follows US President Joe Biden’s new executive action aimed at curbing illegal border crossings. The new rule would prevent people who cross the US-Mexico border illegally from requesting asylum during periods of high illegal crossings. These individuals would either be sent back to Mexico or returned to their home countries unless they meet specific exemptions. Biden emphasized that the new policy will not affect the normal flow of commerce and legal immigration across the border.
López Obrador, when asked about the potential increase in migrants in Mexican border towns, stated, “We are seeking an agreement that if they (the US) make the decision to deport, they do so directly.” He added that Mexico is capable of managing the migrants but prefers a direct deportation agreement to avoid overwhelming Mexican border towns.
Cooperation and Future Plans
In a phone call described as “respectful” and “very amicable,” Biden and López Obrador discussed the importance of supporting Latin American nations. López Obrador expressed his appreciation for the US plan to build three new border bridges, which he believes will significantly boost economic and commercial development in the region.
Criticisms and Concerns
Critics of Biden’s new migration policy argue that it doesn’t adequately address the influx of migrants at the US southern border, while others believe it will endanger vulnerable asylum seekers. Tonatiuh Guillén, a professor at the National Autonomous University of Mexico (UNAM), suggested that the new rule effectively creates a “virtual wall” by denying entry to thousands of refugees in Mexico.
Despite these concerns, Mexican authorities have downplayed the expected impact. A source at Mexico’s asylum commission (COMAR) mentioned that the agency is not very concerned about a potential increase in refugee applications, as migrants at the northern border are typically not interested in seeking asylum in Mexico.
Positive Outlook
López Obrador highlighted his optimism about the discussions with Biden, particularly the plan to construct new border bridges, which he believes will greatly enhance economic ties and development across the region.
