Introduction
The passage discusses Mexico’s foreign policy, which has historically focused on self-protection against external pressures rather than expanding its influence globally. This observation was made by Alan Riding in 1984, whose book “Distant Neighbors” encapsulates this perspective.
Background on Alan Riding and His Book
Alan Riding, a British-born Brazilian who became a correspondent for The New York Times in Mexico, authored “Distant Neighbors” 40 years ago. The book, recently republished in Spanish with a prologue by Jorge Castañeda, seems to have become a collection of prophecies regarding Mexico’s foreign policy.
Mexico’s Foreign Policy: A Historical Perspective
Riding noted that Mexico’s foreign policy has traditionally looked inward, aiming to protect the country from external pressures rather than broadening its global influence. He observed that Mexico considered international issues less important, focusing instead on showcasing its independence from the United States.
Key Principles of Mexico’s Foreign Policy
According to Riding, the fundamental principles guiding Mexico’s foreign policy include respect for national sovereignty and self-determination. These principles, though abstract, serve as Mexico’s primary safeguard against repeating its history and protect other nations vulnerable to intervention.
Evolution and Current Scenario
While there have been periods of greater openness to the world, such as during Salinas de Gortari’s term with the North American Free Trade Agreement (NAFTA), other periods have seen presidents, like AMLO, prioritize domestic performance over international engagement.
Recent Developments
Currently, Mexico’s foreign policy continues to emphasize its alignment with Washington, particularly in confrontations with Moscow and Beijing. This stance has led to the imposition of tariffs on these nations.
Leadership and International Engagement
Under President AMLO, Mexico’s international engagement has been limited. He traveled abroad only 16 days during his term, with eight of those trips being to the United States. Claudia Sheinbaum, the current president, has decided not to attend the United Nations Assembly or the Asia-Pacific Economic Cooperation (APEC) summit in South Korea, where former U.S. President Trump and Chinese leader Xi Jinping will meet.
Key Questions and Answers
- What is the historical context of Mexico’s foreign policy? Mexico’s foreign policy has traditionally focused on self-protection against external pressures rather than expanding its global influence.
- Who is Alan Riding and what is his connection to Mexico’s foreign policy? Alan Riding, a British-born Brazilian correspondent for The New York Times in Mexico, documented this perspective in his 1984 book “Distant Neighbors.”
- What are the key principles of Mexico’s foreign policy? Respect for national soberainty and self-determination guide Mexico’s foreign policy, serving as safeguards against historical repetition and protecting vulnerable nations from intervention.
- How has Mexico’s foreign policy evolved over time? While there have been periods of greater international engagement, such as during NAFTA negotiations, other periods have seen limited foreign involvement.
- What is Mexico’s current stance on international relations? Mexico continues to align closely with Washington, imposing tariffs on nations like Russia and China.
- How has recent Mexican leadership impacted international engagement? Recent presidents, including AMLO and Claudia Sheinbaum, have demonstrated limited international travel and engagement.
