A joint statement released by both countries late Friday said that Mexico agreed to increase enforcement to curb irregular migration, including deployment of its newly created National Guard throughout the country, with a focus on its southern border with Guatemala. On Thursday night, Mexico’s Foreign Ministry said it would deploy up to 6,000 National Guard troops.
The U.S., meanwhile, said it would immediately expand the implementation of the existing “Migrant Protection Protocols” across its entire southern border, returning asylum seekers to Mexico.
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“Those crossing the U.S. Southern Border to seek asylum will be rapidly returned to Mexico where they may await the adjudication of their asylum claims,” the statement said, adding that Mexico will authorize the entrance of all of those individuals for humanitarian reasons.
Migrants and residents crossing from Guatemala into Mexico’s Chiapas state.
Migrants and residents crossing from Guatemala into Mexico’s Chiapas state.PHOTO: PEDRO PARDO/AGENCE FRANCE-PRESSE/GETTY IMAGES
Both countries agreed to finalize the terms of additional provisions within 90 days.
Speaking to reporters at the conclusion of the talks in Washington, Mr. Ebrard said his country would take action to dismantle human-smuggling networks and work more closely with the U.S. to share information about migrants.
Mexico will accept the return of more migrants to await the resolution of their U.S. asylum cases, and offer them work permits, education and health services during their time in the country, Mr. Ebrard said.
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In return, Mr. Ebrard added, the U.S. would accelerate several investment and development programs in Central America and Southern Mexico that were agreed to under a $5.8 billion aid package announced late last year