A Profile of Mexico - 1986

Although the USA has vital national economic and political interests in Mexico, few of our citizens understand the country or its people. Unfortunately, our government's track record is not much better; historically, Mexican relations have been given a low priority. This is in spite of the fact that our Embassy in Mexico is the largest in the world; and, there is scarcely an agency of our government that is not involved in programs which directly or indirectly affect our bilateral relations. Events such as Mexico's massive new oil finds in thh late 1970's their support of insurgency actions in Nicaragua and El Salvador, and a near default in 1982 on their huge international debt slowly began to alter our approach toward that country. In addition to a severe economic crisis, Mexico is also faced with other disuniting problems which require immediate attention. While solutions rest with the Mexicans, the USA must provide a neighborly understanding and support where possible. Living as we do, with such a high degree of interdependence, our only reasonable choice is to make the good neighbor policy a reality. To do this, however, we must first understand the country; not to meddle, but to avoid the death trap of overreaction. This paper provides a profile of Mexico--looking at their system of government, the character of the nation and its people, and those critical issues facing the country today. While it is not all encompassing, it will give the reader some appreciation for our differences.