Mexico-U.S. Relations: Issues for the 109th Congress

Publication Date: February 2006

Publisher: Library of Congress. Congressional Research Service

Author(s):

Research Area: Trade

Type:

Coverage: Mexico

Abstract:

The United States and Mexico have a special relationship as neighbors and partners under the North American Free Trade Agreement (NAFTA). The friendly relationship has been strengthened by President Bush's meetings with President Fox. This report, covering trade, migration/border, drug trafficking, and political issues, will be updated on a regular basis, with action on migration issues expected.

Trade Issues. Since 1994, NAFTA institutions have been functioning, trade between the countries has tripled, and allegations of violations of labor and environmental laws have been considered by the trilateral institutions. The Bush Administration argues that NAFTA has had modest positive impacts on all three member countries, but Mexican farmers have strongly criticized the effects of NAFTA. Notable bilateral trade disputes relate to trucking, telecommunications, tuna, sweeteners and anti-dumping measures.

Migration/Border Issues. In recent years, President Bush has called for immigration reform, and various congressional initiatives are under consideration. In May 2005, Congress passed the REAL ID Act of 2005, with provisions that strengthen border control and establish identity card standards for drivers' licenses. In June 2005, U.S., Canadian, and Mexican officials released a Report to Leaders with initiatives for trilateral cooperation under the "Security and Prosperity Partnership (SPP) of North America." In November 2005, the Administration launched initiatives to better secure U.S. borders. In December 2005, the House passed H.R. 4437 (Border Protection, Antiterrorism, and Illegal Immigration Control Act of 2005) that would strengthen border and immigration controls, including deployment of a fence and surveillance equipment along the Mexico-U.S. border.

Drug Trafficking Issues. Bush Administration officials have regularly praised Mexico's counter-narcotics efforts under Fox, especially action against major traffickers and efforts to improve the judicial system. Mexico remains the leading transit country for cocaine and a leading supplier of methamphetamine and numerous U.S. extradition requests were denied because of Mexico's prohibition against life sentences and capital punishment, however in November 2005 the Mexican Supreme Court overturned the prohibition against life sentences. Several bills (H.R. 3889, H.R. 2601) have been reported by committees to encourage a reduction of smuggling of methamphetamine from Mexico. The Foreign Operations Appropriations Act (H.R. 3057/P.L. 109-102) was enacted in November 2005, barring assistance to a country that refuses to extradite individuals accused of killing U.S. law enforcement officers, unless the Secretary of State certifies that such application is contrary to U.S. national interests.

Political and Human Rights Issues. Major party candidates for the July 2006 elections are Andres Manuel Lopez Obrador (PRD), Felipe Calderon (PAN), and Roberto Madrazo (PRI). In early 2006, attacks on press freedom are a cause of concern. While presenting the First Report on the government's National Human Rights Campaign on December 9, 2005, President Fox announced the abolition of the death penalty in Mexico and declared that Mexico fully respected human rights.