This article originally appeared in Fair Observer on January 9, 2025.
Mexico and the EU are at a critical juncture, with their interests aligning in ways that could strengthen their diplomatic and economic relationship. The recent leadership changes in both Mexico, with Claudia Sheinbaum’s election, and the EU, with Ursula von der Leyen’s reappointment as Commission President, present an opportunity for a renewed strategic partnership. However, their efforts to deepen collaboration will face challenges, including navigating the shifting priorities of a new American administration and addressing historical tensions over issues like colonial legacy and economic imperialism. Despite these hurdles, both Mexico and the EU have much to gain from a strengthened partnership, particularly in areas like trade, climate policy and emerging technologies. By focusing on shared priorities, such as sustainability, green energy and digital transformation, Mexico and the EU can address their mutual goals and shape a future of cooperation that benefits both regions.
Mexico and the EU have maintained diplomatic relations since 1960, but only formalized regular political dialogue with the signing of the Global Cooperation Agreement in 1997. In 2008, the two furthered their bilateral relationship by establishing a Strategic Partnership, which helped strengthen their collaboration across political, security, environmental and socio-economic issues.
In 2023, the EU and the Community of Latin American and Caribbean (CELAC) States signed a declaration with ambitious commitments. This EU-CELAC summit, the first in eight-years, signals a renewed commitment to collaboration. However, there has been limited follow up. Mexico, as a versatile Latin American bridge between North and South America, is well-positioned to lead in fulfilling these goals and should seize this momentum. Mexico also significantly benefits from high foreign direct investment (FDI), tourism and trade with Western countries. While the United States and Canada contribute the largest share, the EU became Mexico’s second-largest source of FDI in 2023.
Despite these links with Europe, Mexico sometimes resents what it perceives as enduring Western economic and cultural imperialism. Most recently, Mexico demanded that Spain apologize for its colonial exploitation in Mexico. When Spain refused, Mexico snubbed the king of Spain by not inviting him to Sheinbaum’s inauguration. This dispute reflects a deeper disagreement over the legacy of European colonization in the Americas, which could strain the Mexico-EU relations in key areas such as economic ties and security cooperation.