Israel–Mexico relations

Israel-Mexico relations

Israel
Mexico

Israeli–Mexican relations refers to the diplomatic relations between Israel and Mexico. Both nations are members of the Organisation for Economic Co-operation and Development, United Nations and the World Trade Organization.

History

Israeli Prime Minister Benyamin Netanyahu meeting with Mexican President Enrique Peña Nieto in Jerusalem; 2016.
Ceremony of the transfer of two Israeli Navy Sa'ar 4.5-class missile boats to the Mexican Navy in 2004
A plaque dedicating a bridge to Mexico at the Be'er Sheva North Railway Station

During the Partition of Palestine in November 1947, Mexico was one of ten countries to abstain from voting on the partition.[1] Mexico recognized Israel in January 1950 and both nations established diplomatic relations on 1 July 1952. Since then, both nations have opened embassies in each other's countries, respectively, with Mexico opening its embassy in Tel-Aviv in 1959.[2][3]

Today, relations between both nations mainly are based on international cooperation at the United Nations and mutual respect for each other. Over the years, Mexico and Israel have increased military cooperation between each other. In 2008, Mexico purchased $210 million USD of Israeli military equipment.[4] There are also several cultural and touristic interchanges between both nations. In 2013, Mexican citizens were one of the biggest visitors to Israel for tourism and religious purposes.[5] In 2012, both nations celebrated their 60th anniversary of establishing diplomatic relations.[6] In October 2013, the Mexican Congress installed a section in their building dedicated to 'Mexico-Israel Friendship'.[7]

State visits

Presidential visits from Israel to Mexico[8]

Presidential visits from Mexico to Israel[9][10][11]

Trade

On 6 March 2000, both nations signed a free trade agreement.[12] In 2015, two-way trade between both nations amounted to $841 million USD.[13][14] Israel is Mexico's 42nd biggest trading partner globally and biggest trading partner in the Middle East. Mexico's exports to Israel include: crude oil, automobiles, refrigerators and fruit. Israel's main exports to Mexico include: chemical based products, electronics and medicine.[15]

Resident diplomatic missions

See also

References

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