Sheinbaum meets with US business leaders and ambassador amid controversy over US-backed police academy

President Claudia Sheinbaum met with U.S. business leaders at the National Palace on Thursday, focusing on investment climate in Mexico and addressing concerns regarding a controversial new revenue law. Sheinbaum mentioned that she will address her concerns with U.S. Ambassador Ronald Johnson at a later date, amid criticism over a U.S.-backed police academy in Querétaro.

Several investment agreements were finalized during the meeting, with plans to be announced later. The U.S. contingent was briefed on Sheinbaum’s strategy for economic development, industrialization, and regional growth, known as Plan México. The meeting took place amidst a review of the Mexico-U.S. trade relationship, outlined in the U.S.-Mexico-Canada Agreement (USMCA).

While Sheinbaum emphasized increased investment and productive integration, the controversy surrounding Ambassador Johnson was a hot topic with the media. After a groundbreaking ceremony for the International Police Training Academy on Oct. 2, Johnson and Governor Mauricio Kuri faced criticism for failing to obtain federal authorization.

Sheinbaum questioned the project, stressing that state governments cannot forge international security agreements without federal and Foreign Ministry authorization. She expressed a preference for cooperation with dignity and transparency, demanding that federal frameworks not be bypassed. Johnson has agreed to meet with Foreign Affairs Minister Roberto Velasco to discuss the police academy and other security issues.