French President Emmanuel Macron arrived in Mexico City for talks with Mexican President Claudia Sheinbaum. On Friday, Sheinbaum received Macron at the National Palace for a private meeting. During the meeting, the two leaders discussed bilateral relations, including trade and culture. Sheinbaum stated that they would also address economic ties, the renewal of the trade agreement with the European Union in 2026, France's role in it, and collaboration in science, culture, and innovation. Upon his arrival in Mexico City, Macron was greeted by Foreign Minister Juan Ramón de la Fuente. As part of his visit, Macron is also scheduled to meet with Mexican and French business leaders and hold a joint press conference with Sheinbaum. The Ministry of Foreign Affairs indicated that this visit will strengthen the multidimensional nature of the strategic partnership and mark the beginning of activities for the 200th anniversary of diplomatic relations between Mexico and France. It is also reported that Macron seeks to increase the presence of French companies in Mexico and, at the same time, attract more Mexican investors to his country. Amid trade tensions, the two regions have once again accelerated the review of the Global Agreement, nearly eight years after negotiations began. It is expected that the agreement may finally be re-signed next year; however, controversies persist, mainly related to changes to Mexico's institutional framework.
