MEXICO CITY (AP) — Mexican President Claudia Sheinbaum visited the western state of Jalisco on Friday to address growing security concerns ahead of the presidential election. upcoming FIFA World Cup Following a wave of violence in the region.
The violence was sparked last month by the Mexican military’s killing of Mexico’s most powerful drug lord, Nemesio Oseguera Cervantes, also known as “El Mencho.” Clashes between armed cartel groups and car arson erupted all over mexicoBut the heaviest violence was in Jalisco state, one of Mexico’s three host cities for the World Cup, and its capital Guadalajara.
The wave of violence left more than 70 people dead, including 25 National Guard members, and raised doubts in Mexico and abroad about the viability of a city that hosts thousands of visitors.
On Friday, Sheinbaum hosted a morning news briefing from the municipality’s military headquarters, accompanied by the Security Cabinet and senior military commanders. “El Mencho” was buried earlier this week The stadium where World Cup matches are held under tight security.
“We are here to tell all the people of Jalisco, all the people of Jalisco, that we are united and working for the peace, security and well-being of the residents of this beautiful state,” Sheinbaum said.
With less than 100 days until the World Cup, Sheinbaum and security officials detailed what’s next. Security plan deployed during summer sporting events More than 20 federal agencies and local governments are involved, including the Army and Navy.
Mexican Security Secretary Omar García Harhouf, who is behind Mexico’s cartel attacks, said that Mexico: Cooperation with US, Canadian and FIFA authorities Enhance planning and risk response.
He added that Mexico’s plans include specialized training for officials, planning and operational exercises, early warning systems, security deployment around stadiums, airports, roads and accommodation facilities, and protection plans for delegations and attendees.
Mr. Sheinbaum has sought to project confidence in the face of the allegations, including a telephone conversation shortly after the violence erupted in late February. FIFA President Gianni Infantinoexpressed “full confidence” that Mexico could host part of the World Cup. Earlier this week, she posed next to the World Cup trophy with a FIFA scarf around her neck.
On Friday, General Roman Villalbaso, head of security coordination for the 2026 FIFA World Cup, announced the creation of three joint task forces in the World Cup host cities of Mexico City, Guadalajara and Monterrey.
“The 2026 FIFA World Cup, hosted by Mexico, the United States and Canada, is an unprecedented event,” he said.
“For Mexico, this entails two challenges: showing itself before the international community as a reliable and secure country, and having the ability to confront any threats that undermine national security.”
___
Follow AP’s coverage of Latin America and the Caribbean. https://apnews.com/hub/latin-america
