In a bold move, China and Mexico have rejected former U.S. President Donald Trump’s proposed tariffs tied to fentanyl concerns, calling for collaboration over confrontation. The debate highlights rising tensions over global drug policies and trade ties. 🔥
Trade Threats vs. Teamwork
Trump announced plans to slap hefty tariffs on Chinese and Mexican imports unless they curb drug trafficking into the U.S. But officials from both countries fired back, arguing tariffs would only strain relations. Liu Pengyu, a spokesperson for China’s embassy in the U.S., emphasized that China has \"one of the world’s toughest counter-narcotics policies\" and already collaborates with U.S. agencies. 🇨🇳🤝🇺🇸
China’s Counterargument
China’s Foreign Ministry stressed its 2019 landmark decision to regulate all fentanyl-related substances—a global first. A spokesperson urged the U.S. to \"cherish goodwill\" and avoid undermining progress in bilateral drug control efforts. 🌐
Mexico’s Firm Stand
Mexican President Claudia Sheinbaum warned that tariffs would backfire, vowing retaliatory taxes on U.S. goods. She stressed migration and drug issues require \"cooperation, not threats.\" 💼🇲🇽
Experts Weigh In
Global policy expert Vanda Felbab-Brown told the New York Times that tariffs risk disrupting ongoing U.S.-China anti-drug efforts. \"Cooperation is fragile,\" she warned. 🧠💡
As the debate heats up, the world watches: Will tariffs derail cross-border teamwork? 🤔
