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-Editorial
The American Society of Mexico hosted a private dinner and forum with former U.S. Homeland Security Secretary Chad Wolf and more than 75 business, government, and academic leaders from both countries to discuss current challenges and opportunities in the U.S.–Mexico relationship.
The event aimed to foster open dialogue and reinforce mutual understanding and cooperation between the two nations. Wolf, who served during President Donald Trump’s first term, said the second Trump administration has seen “significant progress” in bilateral cooperation, citing pragmatic leadership focused on achieving tangible results in security, health, and economic issues.
“Clear leadership and effective collaboration are key to achieving rapid results,” Wolf said.
Larry Rubin, president of the American Society of Mexico, emphasized the importance of maintaining consistent communication among key decision-makers in both countries. “Now more than ever, understanding between Mexico and the United States must be based on mutual trust, respect, and a shared vision of prosperity,” Rubin said. “At the American Society of Mexico, we work to serve as a bridge connecting leaders who shape the future of both nations.”
Discussions focused on U.S. perceptions of Mexico, with particular attention to border security, fentanyl trafficking, cartel activity, and human smuggling. Wolf noted that the recent U.S. designation of major cartels as foreign terrorist organizations allows authorities to target their financial networks and support structures. He said the United States remains committed to assisting Mexico through technical and technological cooperation while respecting its sovereignty.
Participants also discussed the importance of dismantling illicit funding sources and strengthening Mexico’s local capacities to combat organized crime. Both sides agreed that bilateral cooperation should be continuous, results-oriented, and practical.
The dialogue included an examination of technological advances in border security, noting that criminal groups are increasingly using sophisticated tools. Wolf said both governments must invest in modern systems that overcome bureaucratic and budgetary obstacles. He also called for modernization of the U.S. legal immigration system to meet economic demands by expanding accessible pathways for both skilled and unskilled workers.
Wolf concluded that strategic cooperation between Mexico and the United States extends beyond immediate security concerns, underscoring that prosperity, rule of law, and sustainable development are key to long-term regional stability and the reduction of illicit activity.
The American Society of Mexico said the event reaffirmed its mission to provide a platform for open and constructive dialogue that promotes collaboration among leaders from diverse sectors and strengthens U.S.–Mexico relations for the benefit of both countries.
