Carl Bildt travels to Latin America
On 7 February, Minister for Foreign Affairs Carl Bildt began his trip to Latin America with a visit to Mexico. On 10 February, he will continue to Brazil.
In Mexico, Mr Bildt is scheduled to meet Secretary of Foreign Affairs Patricia Espinosa. Global issues such as the economic crisis, development in the region and cooperation with the EU will be key components of the discussions.
Climate issues will also be the focus of their talks, particularly in view of the fact that Mexico will be hosting the continued climate negotiations at the end of the year. Multilateral issues, such as disarmament, peacekeeping and reform of international institutions, will also be discussed.
Economic relations between Sweden and Mexico are also on the agenda. After Brazil, Mexico is Sweden's largest export market in Latin America. Some 200 Swedish companies operate or are represented in the country. Since 2000, the EU has had a free trade agreement with Mexico which has led to a noticeable increase in trade.
There is a long tradition of political cooperation between Sweden and Mexico. During the Cold War, the two countries were often in agreement on international issues. Among other things, Sweden and Mexico cooperated in the field of disarmament and on the peace efforts in Central America. There has also been long-term and well-developed cooperation in international organisations, particularly since both countries take part in support groups for reforms of the UN.
