AMLO pauses relations with the US and Canadian Ambassadors

The president of Mexico, Andrés Manuel López Obrador, announced this Tuesday a “pause” in the relationship with the US ambassador, Ken Salazar, after the diplomat’s criticism of the controversial judicial reform promoted by the Government.

“As long as they continue with that policy, there is a pause with the Embassy,” said López Obrador in his morning conference from the National Palace, located in Mexico City.

The president, who has been very severe with Salazar for his recent statements, clarified to the press that the ‘impasse’ is exclusively with the US Embassy and not with the State Department.

“The relationship continues, but I hope there is, on their part, a ratification that they are going to be respectful of the independence of Mexico,” he said.

Last week, Salazar stated that the Executive’s plan “represents a greater risk to the functioning of democracy” in Mexico. “Any judicial reform must have safeguards that guarantee that the Judiciary is strengthened and is not subject to the corruption of politics,” he added.

Faced with the diligent response of López Obrador, who spoke of “unacceptable interference,” the American ambassador lowered his tone, opted for dialogue and highlighted the “unprecedented relationship, as partners and equals” between both nations.

However, López Obrador reproved the diplomat for giving his opinion on what “is wrong” in a foreign country. In that sense, he also criticized the Canadian ambassador to Mexico, Graeme C. Clark, who referred to judicial reform on the same day as Salazar.

A “coincidence” that was reviled by the head of state. “At the same time Canadians do it, it is someone else’s shame (…) it seems like an associated State,” he reproached.

López Obrador also announced a “pause” with the Canadian Embassy. “They have to learn to respect Mexico’s sovereignty,” he said.