Enrique Peña Nieto on Justin Trudeau
TL;DR
Enrique Peña Nieto viewed Justin Trudeau as a friendly partner with whom he successfully negotiated the USMCA trade agreement.
Key Points
He met with the Canadian Prime Minister in October 2017 to discuss the renegotiation of NAFTA and expressed appreciation for mutual support following natural disasters.
The former President was honored to stand with Trudeau at the signing ceremony for the United States-Mexico-Canada Agreement in Buenos Aires on November 30, 2018.
He acknowledged the shared will of their three nations to work together toward the well-being and prosperity of each society through the trade agreement.
Summary
Enrique Peña Nieto consistently treated Justin Trudeau as a key ally and partner, particularly concerning the renegotiation of the North American Free Trade Agreement (NAFTA) into the USMCA. The former Mexican President expressed appreciation for their cooperation and noted that the negotiation process, though challenging, fostered a strong friendship between the leaders. Both leaders frequently met to discuss mutual concerns, including human rights, and to advance the economic integration of North America, culminating in the signing of the USMCA in November 2018.
His final day in office marked a significant moment where he stood alongside the Canadian Prime Minister and the US President to finalize the agreement, which he described as a modern foundation for future exchanges. Peña Nieto acknowledged the work of both negotiating teams and expressed satisfaction that the new treaty affirmed the importance of regional prosperity, believing that a strong North America depended on the success of all its members. The relationship appeared cooperative and focused on shared economic goals throughout the process.
Frequently Asked Questions
Enrique Peña Nieto generally spoke positively about Justin Trudeau, viewing him as a friend and a partner in achieving the USMCA. He acknowledged their close partnership throughout the challenging trade renegotiations.
Yes, the leaders cooperated closely on trade, with their focus being the successful modernization of NAFTA into the USMCA. They met specifically to discuss this and other mutual concerns.
A significant recorded meeting took place in October 2017 in Mexico City, followed by their joint appearance for the USMCA signing ceremony in November 2018.
Sources4
Remarks With Prime Minister Justin P.J. Trudeau of Canada and President Enrique Peña Nieto of Mexico at a Signing Ceremony for the United States-Mexico-Canada Agreement in Buenos Aires, Argentina
Prime Minister Justin Trudeau meets with Mexican President Enrique Peña Nieto
Mexico’s Peña Nieto, Canada’s Trudeau spoke Monday: Mexico government
Mexican president calls Canada's Trudeau ahead of NAFTA talks
* This is not an exhaustive list of sources.