Mexico Commits to Water Supply for US Following Tariff Threats from Trump

Mexico has agreed to send water to the U.S. in response to Trump’s tariff threats amid ongoing tensions about a 1944 water-sharing treaty, which has seen significant shortfalls. The deal aims to assist affected Texas farmers and establish a long-term plan for treaty compliance. This resolution highlights the challenges faced by both nations amidst water scarcity and complex diplomatic relations.

Mexico City has reached an agreement to promptly supply water to the United States, aiming to remedy shortfalls under a longstanding treaty. This announcement was made on Monday amid escalating tensions, particularly after U.S. President Donald Trump threatened to impose additional tariffs, claiming Mexico was “stealing” water from Texas farmers.

The controversy stems from a 1944 agreement that allows water sharing between the two nations—specifically, the U.S. provides water from the Colorado River in exchange for Rio Grande flows. Following negotiations, Mexico’s foreign ministry confirmed that it would begin sending water from the Rio Grande now and expects to continue further transfers during the rainy season.

In a statement, the foreign ministry emphasized Mexico’s commitment to adhere to the 1944 treaty, which is critical for the development of regions along the northern border. The U.S. State Department expressed support for this agreement, stating it would assist American farmers and municipalities in the Rio Grande Valley, alleviating ongoing water shortages.

U.S. officials thanked Mexican President Claudia Sheinbaum for her active role in resolving the matter and mentioned that both countries are working toward a long-term strategy to ensure compliance with the treaty’s conditions while addressing existing water debts. With the current treaty cycle ending in October, Mexico is facing a penalty, having owed the U.S. over 1.55 billion cubic meters of water.

Tensions between the U.S. and Mexico have heightened recently due to Trump’s trade policies and calls for stronger actions against undocumented immigration. Meanwhile, drought conditions have significantly reduced Colorado River water levels, and frustrations are rising among U.S. farmers regarding Mexico’s consistent delays. The Mexican government attributes some of these supply issues to a two-decade drought in the Rio Grande basin, exacerbated in 2023.

Notably, historical conflicts over water rights arose in 2020 when farmers in Chihuahua seized a dam, protesting against government obligations to supply water to the United States. This clash resulted in tragic violence, underscoring the deep-rooted complexities surrounding water distribution in the region.

As the water-sharing crisis unfolds, both nations seem poised on a precarious edge—a clear demonstration of how environmental issues intermingle with trade relations and diplomacy.

In summary, Mexico’s commitment to supplying water to the United States marks an important step in resolving a longstanding dispute rooted in their 1944 treaty. With growing pressures from both sides, this agreement not only addresses immediate shortfalls but also highlights the need for long-term cooperation in managing shared water resources. As tensions linger, the U.S. and Mexico must navigate these challenges carefully, realizing the implications extend beyond just agriculture, impacting regional diplomacy as well.

Original Source: www.france24.com