Havana: Mexico has labeled the new tariffs announced by the United States as unfair, prompting the initiation of formal negotiations through a permanent bilateral working group, as stated by the Mexican government on Saturday.

According to Namibia Press Agency, a joint statement from the foreign affairs and economy ministries revealed that a high-level meeting between a Mexican delegation and U.S. officials took place in Washington on Friday. During this meeting, the Mexican representatives were informed about the new tariffs set to be implemented on August 1.

The ministries expressed their disagreement with the U.S. decision, stating, "We stated clearly that we believe this is unfair and that we do not agree." To safeguard businesses and jobs on both sides of the border, both nations agreed to form a permanent bilateral working group. This group aims to address crucial issues in their relationship and explore alternatives to prevent the enforcement of the tariffs.

The bilateral working group will also tackle significant topics such as border security, migration, and water management. "Starting July 11, we have created the space to resolve any possibility of tariffs being enforced on Aug. 1. In short, Mexico is already in negotiations," the statement concluded.

Mexican President Claudia Sheinbaum reiterated Mexico's stance against the tariffs during her press conference on Friday morning. She emphasized, "We believe tariffs are not the solution. The best way to compete -- even for the United States -- is to strengthen our trade agreement," referring to the U.S.-Mexico-Canada Agreement.