Mexico's Foreign Minister Juan Ramon de la Fuente Steps Down for Health Reasons; Roberto Velasco Nominated as Successor

Mexican President Claudia Sheinbaum announced Wednesday that Foreign Minister Juan Ramon de la Fuente is stepping down from his position due to ongoing health concerns. Sheinbaum has nominated Roberto Velasco, the current Undersecretary for North America, to take over leadership of Mexico's Foreign Ministry, pending Senate confirmation.

Sheinbaum made the announcement in a video shared on X, appearing alongside both De la Fuente and Velasco. "Juan Ramon has asked me to leave the Foreign Ministry for health reasons," she stated. De la Fuente, who previously took medical leave following surgery last November, now requires additional time to complete his rehabilitation, the president explained.

Velasco brings extensive diplomatic experience to the role, having managed Mexico's relations with the United States and Canada since June 2020. He initially led the North American affairs unit before ascending to the undersecretary position. If confirmed by the Senate, Velasco pledged to continue defending Mexico's sovereignty, protecting Mexican citizens abroad, and strengthening strategic partnerships across North and Latin America.

The leadership transition arrives at a critical juncture in North American trade politics. Mexico, the United States, and Canada are currently engaged in a joint review of the United States-Mexico-Canada Agreement, commonly known as USMCA. The trade deal, originally negotiated during President Donald Trump's first term and implemented in 2020 as a replacement for NAFTA, remains a cornerstone of Mexico's economy and a key framework for trilateral trade relations.

With trade negotiations ongoing and diplomatic pressures mounting, Velasco's appointment signals continuity in Mexico's foreign policy approach. His deep familiarity with North American affairs positions him to navigate the complex economic and political landscape ahead as the USMCA review progresses.