Mexico and U.S. reaffirm joint efforts against fentanyl and weapons smuggling

Mexico and the United States have reiterated their dedication to collaboratively address the illegal movement of fentanyl and firearms, along with migration management, whilst maintaining a commitment to human rights.

This commitment was released in a statement following a Mexico City conference that included officials from both countries, such as President Andrés Manuel López Obrador’s security cabinet and a U.S. delegation, led by Elizabeth Sherwood-Randall, the National Security Advisor.

The statement outlined a plan of action which includes advancing international cooperation against fentanyl, dual-use chemicals, and arms smuggling, as well as migration management and modernizing the shared border.

Emphasis was placed on collaborative initiatives to tackle drug traffickers, curtailing the supply of chemicals for illicit fentanyl production, preventing narcotics trafficking across their shared boundary, and enhancing public health services to decrease harm, manage demand, and improve treatment services.

The joint statement highlighted the importance of identifying and dismantling firearm trafficking networks as a key part of their combined efforts to combat illicit fentanyl trafficking.

The officials also discussed advancements in cooperation concerning regional migration. In line with the Los Angeles Declaration on Migration and Protection, they are committed to developing a region-wide response.

Consequently, both countries intend to further enhance legal migration channels across the region, pursue joint development initiatives in Central America, and enforce strict repercussions for unlawful border entry.