Two years ago, the United States and Mexico came together to reaffirm the importance of our enduring partnership and develop a shared vision for how our two countries would enhance security cooperation in the 21st century. The result of that effort was the comprehensive and innovative U.S.-Mexico Bicentennial Framework for Security, Public Health, and Safe Communities. This Framework, based on mutual trust and respect for the sovereignty and independence of each nation, guides our cooperation in the face of common challenges.
The Bicentennial Framework recognizes that many of the threats we face today are multi-dimensional and cannot be overcome by either country on its own. Together, the United States and Mexico will intensify our efforts to combat illicit drug trafficking, particularly synthetic drugs such as fentanyl and their chemical precursors; the trafficking of illicit firearms; human trafficking and smuggling; and the transnational organized criminal groups that threaten the security of communities on both sides of our border. This includes enhancing our efforts to address irregular migration in our hemisphere. Our countries understand the imperative to disrupt transnational criminal organizations which traffic arms and illicit drugs or smuggle humans, profiting from the desperation of people driven from their homes by crime, violence, and instability. As neighbors, partners and friends, the United States and Mexico are jointly addressing these challenges by implementing solutions that reflect our shared values, including respect for the rule of law, protection and defense of human rights, intolerance of corruption, and zero impunity.
At the 2023 High-Level Security Dialogue, cabinet and other senior officials from the United States and Mexico evaluated the progress we have made through the Bicentennial Framework, and discussed new plans, programs, and actions to protect our people, prevent transborder crime, and pursue criminal networks. We also honored the memory of the brave men and women of both countries who have lost their lives in the pursuit of peace and justice.
