Sheinbaum: Mexico’s Foreign Policy Set by Mexico

Mexico City — President Claudia Sheinbaum Pardo responded to criticism from U.S. Under Secretary Christopher Landau, who questioned Mexico's vote at the UN against the economic blockade of Cuba.

During her conference at the National Palace, Sheinbaum defended the country's position by stating that its foreign policy "is defined by Mexico," and recalled that a "very wide majority" of nations spoke out in favor of ending the blockade. "We are a sovereign, free, and independent country. The support for Cuba is historic and based on our principles," she stated.

The president emphasized that her government maintains a good relationship with the United States, although she acknowledged that differences exist on some issues. "Until now we have been able to resolve most of them through dialogue and we will soon achieve additional trade agreements," she added.

Landau had expressed on social media that there is no "blockade" against Cuba, but rather an embargo imposed since 1963, and accused Mexico of "perpetuating a myth" that, according to him, benefits a "caudillista dictatorship."

The exchange of statements occurred one day after Mexico, represented by Ambassador Héctor Vasconcelos at the UN, again backed the resolution demanding an end to the U.S. embargo against Cuba.