Mexico President Andrés Manuel López Obrador and Guatemala President Bernardo Arévalo met in Tapachula, Mexico to discuss shared interests, focusing mainly on immigration. Both countries are facing pressure from the United States to increase border control to manage the flow of migrants north. Security concerns are also a priority as two Mexican cartels are battling for control in the area, leading to violence and displacement. The leaders discussed strategies to address these issues and agreed to direct more resources to the Mexico-Guatemala border and accelerate development programs.
The meeting between the two leaders coincides with heightened diplomatic efforts between the United States and Mexico as they try to address the surge in migration to the U.S.-Mexico border, which reached record levels in late 2023. Mexico’s Foreign Affairs Secretary Alicia Bárcena announced plans to enhance cooperation with the United States and Guatemala, focusing on the Mexico-Guatemala border. They aim to boost development programs, commerce, and job creation in the region. Mexico also plans to issue more temporary work visas to bring Guatemalan labor to Mexico.
Mexico President López Obrador revealed plans to extend a cargo train line from southern Mexico to the Guatemalan border. He expressed interest in extending the Maya Train legacy project to Guatemala’s Peten jungle, a move that could facilitate transportation for migrants. The critical points for migrants heading north are the Darien Gap on the Colombia-Panama border and the Mexico-Guatemala border. Meanwhile, Panama’s incoming president has promised to crack down on migration through the Darien Gap, though the feasibility of such measures remains uncertain.
The shared Mexico-Guatemala-Belize border poses similar challenges, especially in terms of security and policing. The long, mountainous, and remote border area is frequently used by migrants and smugglers, making it difficult to monitor and control. Organized crime groups often exploit migrants, subjecting them to robbery, kidnapping, and extortion. Bárcena emphasized the importance of creating a welcoming and safe border space for people, free from walls and barriers. Despite efforts by authorities, migrants like Carlos Campos continue to face challenges and obstacles in their journey through Mexico.
Overall, the meeting between López Obrador and Arévalo aimed to address various issues concerning immigration, border security, and cooperation between Mexico and Guatemala. The leaders discussed strategies to enhance border control, boost development in the region, and improve conditions for migrants. With the involvement of the United States and other countries in the region, there is a concerted effort to manage the flow of migrants and address security concerns at the Mexico-Guatemala border. The challenges of monitoring and securing the border, as well as protecting migrants from exploitation, remain significant obstacles for both countries.
