Mexican President Warns US of Continued Migrant Flow Without Aid
Andrés Manuel López Obrador emphasizes the need for US assistance to address root causes of migration.
Introduction
Mexican President Andrés Manuel López Obrador issued a warning during an interview with "60 Minutes," stating that unless the United States meets Latin America's demands for aid, the flow of migrants will persist.
Demands for US Action
In January, Obrador presented a series of demands to the U.S. to halt the migrant flow, including providing $20 billion in aid annually to Latin American countries and granting some form of amnesty to illegal immigrant workers in the U.S.
Mixed Results in Curbing Migration
While Mexico has reportedly taken some state-level actions to reduce mass migration at President Biden’s request, the number of migrants started rising again in February, with Border Patrol anticipating another surge in the spring.
Obrador's Position on Migration
"We do, and want to continue doing it. But we do want for the root causes to be attended to, for them to be seriously looked at," Obrador responded when asked about slowing down migration.
List of Demands
Obrador's demands include the U.S. sending $20 billion a year to Latin American countries, lifting sanctions on Venezuela, ending the Cuban embargo, and legalizing millions of Mexicans living in the U.S.
Consequences of Non-Compliance
"If they don’t do the things that you’ve said need to be done, then what?," the interviewer asked. "The flow of migrants will continue," Obrador replied.
Rejection of Diplomatic Blackmail
Obrador rejected the notion of diplomatic blackmail, stating, "I’m speaking frankly. We have to say things as they are. And I always say what I feel, I always say what I think."
Commitment to US-Mexico Relationship
Despite potential disagreements, Obrador emphasized the importance of the U.S.-Mexico relationship, affirming that Mexico would continue to help secure the border.
Impact on 2024 Election
Earlier in the episode, the interviewer noted that immigration, the border, and the economy are key issues in the 2024 election, suggesting that Obrador could play a significant role in the outcome.