America First Does Not Mean America Alone: US Ambassador Johnson

The relationship between Mexico and the United States is at a crucial stage, with a bilateral agenda focused on trade, security, migration, and trafficking, according to newly appointed US Ambassador to Mexico Ronald Johnson. He noted that these shared responsibilities can be effectively addressed thanks to the strong relationship between US President Donald Trump and Mexican President Claudia Sheinbaum.

During a welcoming ceremony hosted by the American Society of Mexico (AMSOC), Ambassador Johnson described the relationship with Mexico as the most special for the United States due to its significant domestic impact. He outlined his mission's focus on a shared agenda that includes stopping fentanyl, gun, and human trafficking, and tackling criminal organizations. “This will save lives in both countries. We want a safer border but also a more efficient one; closed to anything illegal and open to anything that benefits us: trade, culture, and opportunities,” he added.

Ambassador Johnson said that this is a new era for what he called the "free world." He explained the United States is embracing a foreign policy focused on shared responsibility and a commitment to a stronger and more prosperous future for the US and its partners, including Mexico. He stressed that in a global context with armed conflicts in Europe and the Middle East, and with countries like China seeking greater economic dominance, closer collaboration among allies is essential. "It will not happen instantly, but it is a worthy cause for the free world. Step by step, it is a cause we must win, and by fighting together, we will win that objective. We have all heard this a lot, and I will say it again tonight and be as clear as I possibly can be: America first does not mean America alone,” he added. 

Larry Rubin​​, President, AMSOC, stressed that the Mexico-US relationship must be strengthened in this global environment. He pointed out that alternative models are being presented by international blocs like BRICS, which he considers questionable. He clarified that engaging with these new actors would be a strategic error that could compromise a shared future for Mexico and North America. 

“(BRICS) is not a neutral space, as each member represents geopolitical interests that compete with, are against, and do not converge with the values we have defended in North America. Democracy, the rule of law, free innovation, and legality are the pillars that have sustained decades of shared prosperity with the United States. Deviating from this North American path would not only be a political risk of immeasurable magnitude, but a strategic error that would compromise our common future,” Rubin stressed.

Ambassador Johnson stressed that his mission is based on respect for Mexican sovereignty and a desire for close cooperation. He said both governments are working together to secure the border by stopping fentanyl, gun, and human trafficking, while also improving infrastructure to ensure the border remains efficient for legal trade and travel. The ambassador added that the private sector and civil society will play a key role in these bilateral efforts. "I plan to be here for several years. I am here to work, and I will work with you to make the relationship between our two governments stronger and our people more prosperous," he concluded.

Mexico’s Importance to the United States

Ambassador Johnson’s statements come amid a recent announcement of a 30% tariff on Mexican imports to the United States, effective on Aug. 1, 2025. According to the United States, these tariffs were imposed following what the US called insufficient work on the fight against criminal organizations and the trade deficit between the United States and Mexico. “It is a direct consequence of inaction on issues that impact not just trade, but the health and national security of the United States and Mexico. The fight against fentanyl and organized crime, along with respecting USMCA commitments, can no longer wait. The future of our regional competitiveness is at stake; this is a time for action, not excuses,” said Rubin.

Rubin highlighted Mexico's new status as the United States' top trade partner, noting that it has outpaced an exporting giant like China. He said this showcases Mexico's importance, with billions of dollars in transactions crossing the Mexico-US border daily.

Ambassador Johnson echoed this sentiment, pointing to human connection between the countries, with over 40 million people in the United States identifying as US-Mexicans. “There is no partner closer and no partnership that should be easier and more important than the partnership between the United States and Mexico,” he added.