Short-Term Visas and Trade Routes Top Agenda
Mexican President Claudia Sheinbaum said expanding short-term work visas for Mexicans and boosting ocean trade routes with Canada are top priorities as she welcomed Prime Minister Mark Carney in Mexico City.
The two leaders are navigating growing trade challenges tied to U.S. President Donald Trump’s tariff agenda.
Strategic Partnership Agreement
Sheinbaum confirmed both countries want to strengthen the Canada–U.S.–Mexico Agreement (CUSMA) while deepening bilateral ties.
During Carney’s visit, the two leaders were expected to sign a strategic partnership agreement covering:
Infrastructure
Trade
Health
Agriculture
Security
Emergency preparedness
Canadian officials said the pact reflects Ottawa’s push to diversify trade amid U.S. pressure.
High-Level Delegations
Carney’s delegation included Foreign Affairs Minister Anita Anand, Trade Minister Dominic LeBlanc, Finance Minister François-Philippe Champagne, and Parliamentary Secretary Rachel Bendayan.
The leaders planned one-on-one talks, a working lunch with ministers, and meetings with business leaders to boost investment.
Security talks were also scheduled to address drug and firearm trafficking and improve coordination against organized crime.
Competition in U.S. Market
Experts note Canada and Mexico have often acted as competitors for U.S. market share, especially in the automotive sector, where Washington’s tariffs aim to pull manufacturing back into the U.S.
Diplomacy professor Solange Marquez said:
“Both countries are trying to be closer to Washington rather than each other.”
Mining, Energy, and Climate Policy
Sheinbaum stressed that Canadian mining companies must follow Mexico’s environmental rules.
While both leaders have climate backgrounds, experts say climate policy is unlikely to dominate the agenda. Energy and renewables, however, may be discussed as part of trade and investment opportunities.
Broader Geopolitical Context
Sheinbaum is balancing relations with China, having recently imposed tariffs on Chinese cars under U.S. pressure. Analysts note Mexico has not yet gained clear benefits from Washington in return.
Canada cites $56 billion in two-way trade (2024) and $46.4 billion in Canadian investment in Mexico as proof of a growing relationship.
A new North American leaders’ summit is not planned, as all three countries show limited interest following political upheavals in recent years.
