Sheinbaum proposes increasing the amount of the Paisano Welfare Card; aims to strengthen support for migrants

President Claudia Sheinbaum is evaluating an increase in the financial aid provided through the "Tarjeta Bienestar Paisano" program, which assists migrants in their journeys. This initiative, part of the "Mexico Te Abraza" strategy, aims to support individuals returning to their home countries or relocating within Mexico.

"Yes, we have proposed it, I don't know if we have already increased it, I will review it," Sheinbaum stated during a press conference. The card's purpose is to ensure migrants reach their destinations, often with assistance for transportation provided by migration authorities. The program helps migrants who may have been deported or are in transit, offering support to reach more central locations from which they can take buses to their desired destinations, frequently to reunite with family.

Currently, the card provides 2,000 pesos to help migrants with transportation and food expenses as they travel through Mexico. Beyond financial aid, the program also offers migrants employment opportunities, access to social security, and other "Bienestar" (welfare) programs.

Separately, Mexico's Ministry of Foreign Affairs is actively tracking 20 complaints related to the deaths of 17 Mexican nationals while in the custody of or during operations involving the US Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE). Foreign Minister Roberto Velasco confirmed that Mexico adheres to the Vienna Convention on Consular Relations, international treaties, and US laws.

Velasco emphasized Mexico's respect for its own laws and those of the United States, stating, "We are respectful of our own laws and have made that known to the government of the United States, we are respectful of their laws, we are respectful of the treaties of the United States and we do not have, at this moment, any indication from the government of the United States that, beyond what was reported in the media at the time, there is any problem regarding this." He assured that dialogue on the matter is ongoing.