Mexico and France Announce New Era of Strategic Alliance, Boosting Trade and Cultural Ties

Historic Meeting Solidifies Bilateral Partnership

Mexico City, Mexico – On Friday, November 7, 2025, French President Emmanuel Macron and Mexican President Claudia Sheinbaum convened at the National Palace in Mexico City to announce a significant new phase in the strategic alliance between their nations. The meeting, marking President Macron's first official visit to Mexico and President Sheinbaum's first with a European leader since taking office in October 2024, centered on strengthening trade, investment, and cultural cooperation.

The leaders emphasized a shared commitment to deepening their relationship, particularly as both countries approach the 200th anniversary of diplomatic relations in 2026.

Economic Cooperation and Investment Growth

A primary focus of the discussions was the expansion of economic ties. President Macron highlighted the substantial presence of French businesses in Mexico, noting that approximately 700 French companies currently operate in the country, generating around 150,000 direct jobs and 700,000 indirect jobs. He affirmed plans for continued investment, particularly within the aerospace sector.

France stands as the sixth-largest European investor in Mexico. Both presidents underscored the importance of the upcoming renewal of the European Union-Mexico trade agreement in 2026, which is expected to create new opportunities for trade and investment. To further facilitate economic exchanges, the Franco-Mexican Strategic Council is set to be relaunched. Key sectors identified for enhanced collaboration include:

• Renewable energy
• Agriculture
• Healthcare and pharmaceuticals
• Aerospace and transportation
• Circular economy
• Innovation

The discussions also noted the complementarity between France's 'France 2030' initiative and Mexico's 'Plan México'.

Landmark Cultural Exchange and Heritage Preservation

A significant outcome of the meeting was a landmark agreement for a reciprocal temporary exhibition of pre-Hispanic codices. The Azcatitlán codex, currently held in France, will be exhibited in Mexico, while Mexico's Boturini codex will be displayed in France in 2026. President Sheinbaum emphasized the profound historical and moral significance of this exchange, describing it as an act of 'symbolic justice' and representing Mexico's 'living memory' and 'deep roots of our identity'. A dedicated Franco-Mexican working group on heritage cooperation will be established to facilitate such cultural exchanges.

Shared Strategic Vision and Future Outlook

Beyond economic and cultural initiatives, the leaders reaffirmed their commitment to upholding international law, multilateralism, democracy, human rights, and the rule of law. President Macron notably stressed the importance of cooperation between sovereign states, particularly in the fight against drug trafficking, emphasizing respect for national sovereignty. President Sheinbaum has been invited to visit France in 2026, further solidifying future diplomatic engagements. Both presidents also affirmed their dedication to promoting gender equality and feminist diplomacy on the international stage.