Mexico Interior Ministry Reaffirms Dialogue with CNTE Teachers After Failed Talks, Condemns 'Vandalism'

Mexico's federal government remains committed to continuing dialogue with the dissident CNTE teachers' union, despite another round of negotiations failing. The Ministry of the Interior (Segob) reiterated its intention to resume talks on Wednesday, emphasizing that "concertation is the correct path for conflict resolution." This commitment comes after the CNTE escalated its protests, including the toppling of football player figures along Paseo de la Reforma, which were part of the promotion for the 2026 World Cup.

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We have the commitment with the CNTE to continue tomorrow Wednesday with the working group initiated today. Concertation is the correct path for conflict resolution.

Segob condemned "the violence and vandalism" that occurred during the second day of the national strike. Secretary Rosa Icela Rodríguez stated that while peaceful demonstrations are respected, the obstruction of public transit and the impact on citizens' rights are unacceptable. She explained that safety concerns, particularly regarding the use of the Zocalo, led to the placement of barriers, referencing an earlier attempt by the CNTE to breach them, which resulted in a police response with tear gas and explosives.

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We respect peaceful demonstration, but also the free transit of the population whose rights are being affected.

Rodríguez urged CNTE leadership to avoid endangering their members and condemned the use of fireworks and other devices that pose risks to both protesters and the public. She highlighted that clashes on Monday in the Historic Center left two teachers injured, one losing an eye. The Ministry also called for maintaining open communication channels to prevent school closures that disrupt students' education. Education Secretary Mario Delgado and ISSSTE Director Martí Batres also reaffirmed their commitments to addressing the union's concerns regarding the USICAM system and improving ISSSTE services, respectively.

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We condemn any act of provocation, violence and vandalism. Also the use of fireworks, firecrackers, sledgehammers and other devices that only endanger protesters and citizens.