Mexico and Guatemala coordinate humanitarian and consular assistance for the Mexicans in Cuilco, Huehuetenango

Mexico and Guatemala coordinate humanitarian and consular assistance for the Mexicans in Cuilco, Huehuetenango

Mexican and Guatemalan authorities are interviewing the Mexicans who crossed into Guatemala to offer them humanitarian and consular assistance and the option of a safe, voluntary return to Mexico.

In accordance with international law, Mexicans who expressly state their decision to return will receive consular support from Mexico and Guatemala to ensure a safe and orderly return. This approach respects the choices of people in a context of mobility. The authorities will coordinate with the offices of the United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees (UNHCR) in Guatemala to take the appropriate steps.

Mexico and Guatemala are working in tandem to support and protect the group of Mexicans in Cuilco, Huehuetenango, a Guatemalan border town. Both countries have committed to providing assistance, food, and support to ensure their wellbeing during their stay in Guatemala.

Consular staff from the Mexican consulates in Quetzaltenango, Tecún Umán and Petén conducted on-site interviews with the Mexicans to offer consular assistance and protection and the option for voluntarily returning to Mexico in a dignified and safe manner.

The two countries will jointly plan the returns, coordinating dates and times in consultation with the interested Mexicans. Guatemala's Immigration Institute will assist in this process, with security agencies ensuring safety throughout.

In the border communities that are hosting the Mexicans, Guatemala has increased security measures. In addition, they have adapted public buildings as temporary shelters and are providing humanitarian assistance and health services through national institutions organized by the National Disaster Coordinator (CONRED).

To ensure that the Mexicans have legal immigration status, the Guatemalan Immigration Institute is issuing temporary humanitarian stay permits, valid for 30 days and renewable if necessary.

The Governments of Mexico and Guatemala reaffirm their friendly relationship, and their commitment to cooperation and coordination with multilateral bodies. They pledge full compliance with international law to offer protection for those in need, and to work towards more orderly, safe, regular, and humane migration management.

The Government of Mexico thanks the people and government of Guatemala for the support, assistance, and solidarity they have shown to the group of Mexicans during this time.