Background on Andrés Manuel López Obrador (AMLO) and His Diplomatic Tangle with Spain
In the late afternoon of April 2019, then-President Andrés Manuel López Obrador (AMLO) welcomed a group of friends to his private residence in Mexico City’s south side, donning a bathrobe and slippers after receiving a back massage from a therapist.
Earlier that month, AMLO had announced via video that he had sent letters to King Felipe VI and Pope Francis, requesting an apology from the Spanish monarchy to indigenous peoples for events that occurred 500 years prior. This marked the beginning of a diplomatic crisis between Mexico and Spain, as well as the onset of dogmatic diplomacy that would eventually lower Mexico’s standing in international relations.
AMLO’s Role and Influence on Embassy Appointments
Although AMLO’s wife, Beatriz Gutiérrez, did not directly cause the diplomatic crisis with Spain, she played a role in influencing embassy appointments, particularly in Latin America and Russia. Notable figures she supported include Laura Esquivel (appointed to Brazil) and Pedro Salmerón, who was rejected by Panama due to sexual harassment allegations.
Escalating Tensions with Spain
The relationship with Spain has further deteriorated, with several factors contributing to the erosion of ties. Pablo Iglesias and Juan Carlos Monedero, who visited Mexico to bolster AMLO’s grievances against King Felipe VI, have been accused of exploiting the situation for personal gain.
Iglesias’ betrayal of Spanish President Pedro Sánchez is a testament to his political maneuvering. Despite knowing Sánchez’s intentions, Iglesias’ support for Adán Augusto López during his precampaign and his association with La Base, a digital media outlet promoting Claudia Sheinbaum’s image in Spain, have strained relations.
Beatriz Gutiérrez’s Request for Spanish Nationality
Recently, it was reported that Beatriz Gutiérrez has applied for Spanish citizenship. This irony highlights her influence on Mexico’s deteriorating diplomatic standing globally, leading to a “diplomatic pause” with Spain. While Sheinbaum acknowledged Gutiérrez’s right to apply, the diplomatic cost of her actions should not be overlooked.
Key Questions and Answers
- Who is Andrés Manuel López Obrador (AMLO)? AMLO is the current President of Mexico, known for his left-leaning policies and informal communication style.
- What led to the diplomatic crisis with Spain? AMLO’s request for an apology from Spanish authorities for historical events involving indigenous peoples sparked the controversy.
- How did Beatriz Gutiérrez influence the situation? Although not directly responsible for the crisis, she played a role in embassy appointments and supported political figures with questionable intentions.
- What are the implications of Pablo Iglesias and Juan Carlos Monedero’s involvement? Their actions have been perceived as exploiting the situation for personal gain, further straining Mexico-Spain relations.
- What is the significance of Beatriz Gutiérrez’s request for Spanish citizenship? This move has been seen as ironic, given her influence on Mexico’s diplomatic challenges with Spain.
