Mexico Seeks New Deal with U.S. on Border Security, Migration, and Trade

Mexican President Claudia Sheinbaum has asked US President Donald Trump to work on a new agreement that covers border security, migration, and trade. She made this proposal in a phone call after Trump left the G7 Summit early because of the Middle East crisis.

Sheinbaum says both countries need a clear plan to manage their shared border and economic ties, especially since millions of Mexicans live and work in the United States.

Sheinbaum told Trump that Mexico has made its border safer and helped reduce the number of people crossing illegally. US government data shows that border crossings have dropped to their lowest point in years, with fewer than 7,200 incidents in March 2025.

Mexico has sent 10,000 troops to its side of the border, while the US has also increased its security presence. Both countries now work together to stop illegal migration, drug smuggling, and gun trafficking.

Sheinbaum wants the new deal to protect Mexican families who have lived in the US for years and contributed to its economy. She says their rights should be part of any agreement.

The current trade agreement between the US, Mexico, and Canada (USMCA) is still in place, but Sheinbaum’s plan would add new rules for security and migration.

US-Mexico Trade Tensions Rise as Tariff Threat Looms

Trade tensions have grown because Trump has threatened to put high tariffs on Mexican steel, aluminum, and other goods. The US says these tariffs are needed because of unfair trade and the use of foreign metals in Mexican exports.

Mexico’s Economy Secretary Marcelo Ebrard is now in Washington to try to solve these problems and avoid a trade war. He points out that Mexico actually buys more steel and aluminum from the US than it sells.

The US government says stopping illegal migration and drug trafficking, especially fentanyl, is a must for any trade deal. Mexico has responded by increasing law enforcement.

Official figures show a 54% drop in fentanyl seizures at the border in March compared to last year, and Mexican police have made thousands of arrests. Both countries plan to keep talking.

Sheinbaum says working together and respecting each country’s independence is key. The results of these talks will affect jobs, safety, and the daily lives of millions of people on both sides of the border.

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