Claudia Sheinbaum Will Not Attend Trump's Inauguration: What Does It Mean for Mexico-U.S. Relations?

The president of Mexico, Claudia Sheinbaum Pardo, has confirmed that she will not attend Donald Trump's inauguration ceremony


The President of Mexico, Claudia Sheinbaum Pardo, has confirmed that she will not attend the inauguration ceremony of Donald Trump, scheduled for January 20, 2025. In her usual morning press conference, known as La Mañanera, Sheinbaum calmly stated: “No, but it's no big deal,” referring to her absence from the event for the elected president of the United States.

According to the Mexican leader, the invitation to the ceremony was extended through the usual diplomatic channel, focusing more on the attendance of ambassadors from different countries. The ambassador Esteban Moctezuma would represent Mexico, emphasizing that this practice is common in the United States, where the presence of diplomatic corps is preferred over heads of state for these events.

This decision does not seem to indicate a rupture in bilateral relations. Sheinbaum has expressed her belief that the relationship between Mexico and the United States "will be good, based on respect and dialogue." The Mexican leader has emphasized the importance of economic cooperation between the two countries, highlighting the benefits of the Trade Agreement (TMEC) and the economic contribution of Mexican migrants to the United States.

Sheinbaum has begun discussions with the elected President of the United States, Donald Trump, addressing complex topics such as migration, fentanyl trafficking, and trade relations in North America. Sheinbaum emphasized that her government has strategies to address the migration concerns expressed by Trump and to avoid a tariff war between the two countries.

The inauguration ceremony, in which Trump will assume office for a second time, will take place at the iconic Capitol in Washington. The event will begin at 11:00 a.m. CT, under the theme “Our Lasting Democracy: A Constitutional Promise.” Although the protocol typically does not include foreign leaders, an invitation has been confirmed for the President of China, Xi Jinping, despite the ongoing trade tensions between the two countries. Santiago Abascal, the president of the Spanish party VOX, will also attend.

Moreover, the presence of the President of Ecuador, Daniel Noboa, is expected, as he has confirmed his attendance. Also prominent on the guest list is the former President of Brazil, Jair Bolsonaro, although he will need to obtain a special permit to leave Brazil due to ongoing legal investigations against him.

Frequently Asked Questions about the Relationship between Mexico and the United States under Sheinbaum and Trump

Why won’t Claudia Sheinbaum attend Donald Trump's inauguration?

Claudia Sheinbaum will not attend Donald Trump's inauguration because it is common practice in the United States for heads of state not to attend such events, being represented by ambassadors instead. In Mexico's case, Ambassador Esteban Moctezuma will represent the country during the ceremony.

What impact does Sheinbaum's absence at Trump's inauguration have on Mexico-U.S. relations?

The absence of Sheinbaum at the inauguration does not indicate a break in bilateral relations. Sheinbaum has emphasized that the relationship between Mexico and the United States will be strong, based on respect and dialogue. Conversations have begun on topics such as migration and trade, highlighting the importance of economic cooperation between both countries.

What topics have Sheinbaum and Trump discussed in their recent conversations?

In their conversations, Sheinbaum and Trump have addressed topics such as migration, fentanyl trafficking, and trade relations in North America. Sheinbaum has assured that there will be no tariff war despite Trump's previous threats and has emphasized the importance of strategies to address migration concerns.

How is Mexico addressing the issue of fentanyl trafficking?

Claudia Sheinbaum has commented that fentanyl consumption in Mexico is low, attributing it to family unity and awareness campaigns such as "Fentanyl Kills". This program has been sent to Trump's team for their review and adaptation in the United States.

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Luis Flores

CEO and co-founder of CiberCuba.com. When I have time, I write opinion pieces about Cuban reality from an emigrant's perspective.

Luis Flores

CEO and co-founder of CiberCuba.com. When I have time, I write opinion pieces about Cuban reality from an emigrant's perspective.

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