Mexico, U.S. Vow to Boost Cooperation Against Arms Trafficking

Mexico's Ambassador to the United States, Roberto Lazzeri, held a productive meeting with Robert Cekada, the director of the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF). The discussion focused on bolstering cooperation between Mexico and the United States to combat the illicit trafficking of firearms into Mexico.

Ambassador Lazzeri described the meeting as "productive" and stated on social media that both sides "reaffirmed our commitment to continue working together for the security of both nations." He characterized the collaboration as a "mutual and differentiated responsibility that we will continue to promote with results."

This engagement follows Mexican President Claudia Sheinbaum Pardo's call on July 9, the International Day for the Destruction of Firearms, for an end to the arms trade. Sheinbaum emphasized that "nothing is worth another person's life" and urged families to embrace their children. Addressing the issue at the Basilica of Guadalupe, she reiterated her call for the United States to take action against the flow of weapons, noting that most firearms entering Mexico originate from the U.S. and fuel violence.

"We will continue to insist firmly and respectfully on the need to stop the illegal arms trade. Just as Mexico works every day to prevent drugs from reaching our neighboring country, it is also essential to stop the flow of weapons that fuels violence," Sheinbaum stated. She highlighted that 75% of the weapons seized or surrendered in Mexico come from the United States, underscoring that "security and peace are shared responsibilities."

Meanwhile, U.S. Ambassador to Mexico, Ronald Johnson, previously showcased the Trump administration's efforts against firearms trafficking on July 10. He reported that approximately 50,000 firearms and nearly 2.9 million rounds of ammunition had been seized, attributing these actions to efforts to dismantle cartels and halt illegal arms trafficking.

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