Mexico has embarked on a renewed era of cultural and diplomatic cooperation with Spain and France, marking a shift from previous tensions. Under President Claudia Sheinbaum, the Mexican government has focused on cultural diplomacy, employing exchanges, exhibitions, and the return or loan of historic artifacts to strengthen ties with these European nations.
During the administration of former President Andrés Manuel López Obrador, relations with Spain were strained, particularly over his demands for Spain to acknowledge historical abuses during the conquest of Mexico. However, these tensions have eased under Sheinbaum, with cultural initiatives paving the way for improved diplomatic interaction. Spain and Mexico have actively participated in mutual cultural recognition, with Spain honoring Mexican photographer Graciela Iturbide and the National Museum of Anthropology. In return, Mexico loaned more than 400 pre-Hispanic artifacts for exhibitions in Madrid.
Similarly, Mexico’s relationship with France has seen positive developments after previous disputes, including the high-profile Florence Cassez case during the tenures of Felipe Calderón and Nicolas Sarkozy. Now, with cooperation from French President Emmanuel Macron, both countries are pursuing strengthened cultural collaboration. A significant gesture of this renewed friendship was France’s loan of the Azcatitlan Codex to Mexico, commemorating the 200th anniversary of their diplomatic relations. This historic manuscript, detailing the history and migration of pre-Hispanic peoples, will be displayed at Mexico’s National Museum of Anthropology and History.
These efforts reflect a broader strategy by Mexico to use cultural diplomacy as a means to mend and enhance international relationships, showcasing the potential of cultural initiatives in fostering positive diplomatic outcomes.