Extradition of Prisoners / US Military Activities in Mexico

Extradition of Prisoners to the United States. President Claudia Sheinbaum clarified that the extradition of 37 prisoners carried out on Jan. 20 is a sovereign decision. While it responds to a request from the US Department of Justice, it forms part of Mexico’s security cooperation agreements. 

“It is a decision that benefits Mexico; it is important for public security. Mexico’s interests come first. Even if requested, it is a sovereign decision, evaluated through the lens of security policy and protection of our sovereignty. The request came from the US Department of Justice, and once the decision is made, the transfer is executed,” she explained.

US Aircraft Training. Sheinbaum also noted that the US Hercules aircraft that landed at Toluca Airport was there to transport Mexican soldiers for training in the United States. While the National Security Council authorizes the entry of foreign aircraft, she announced that future troop transports will use Mexican planes.

“The landing at Toluca was authorized by the National Security Council for the purpose of transporting personnel to training in the United States. I have now decided that Mexican aircraft will handle these missions. It is important for training, and while the Council reviews all exercises, it is better for Mexican planes to transport our troops rather than relying on US aircraft,” Sheinbaum said.

Mark Carney’s Davos Speech. The president highlighted Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney’s speech at the World Economic Forum in Davos, calling it highly relevant to today’s global context. Sheinbaum said the Mexican delegation would use the forum to encourage private investment in the country.

“Carney delivered an excellent speech, very attuned to the current global situation. Minister Bárcena is presenting our national project, focused on development with justice, public investment, and the importance of private investment rooted in justice and sustainability. Mexico is open to private investment,” she stated.

At the World Economic Forumm, Carney warned that the global system is facing a “rupture, not a transition,” as great powers weaponize trade, tariffs, and supply chains. He urged middle powers to stop pretending the rules-based order still functions and instead build strategic autonomy without retreating into isolation. Carney outlined Canada’s “values-based realism,” combining sovereignty and human rights with pragmatic investment in energy, AI, defense, and trade diversification. He stressed that cooperation among middle powers is essential to withstand geopolitical pressure.

Federal Road Repaving. Jesús Antonio Esteva, Minister of Infrastructure, Communications, and Transport (SCIT), announced a MX$50 billion (US$2.86 billion) investment for the National Road Conservation Program and the “Megabachetón.” The initiative will cover 18,000km of federal roads and generate over 100,000 jobs.

“The investment of MX$50 billion will address 18,000km of toll-free federal roads, 70% of which are key corridors. This project will create around 100,000 jobs and is being implemented from January to December,” Esteva detailed.