Mexico is experiencing a renewed phase of cultural and diplomatic cooperation with Spain and France, signaling a shift from previous tensions under past administrations. Under President Claudia Sheinbaum, Mexico is leveraging cultural exchanges, exhibitions, and the return or loan of historic artifacts as tools of cultural diplomacy, strengthening ties with these European nations.
The relations between Mexico and Spain had suffered during the administration of former President Andrés Manuel López Obrador, particularly due to tensions arising from his calls for Spain to acknowledge historical abuses committed during the conquest of Mexico. However, the Sheinbaum administration has eased these tensions through cultural initiatives, fostering a space for diplomatic engagement. In a notable exchange, Spain recognized the contributions of Mexican photographer Graciela Iturbide and the National Museum of Anthropology, while Mexico loaned over 400 pre-Hispanic artifacts for exhibitions in Madrid.
Mexico’s relationship with France has similarly improved after past disputes, such as the tensions surrounding the Florence Cassez case during the tenures of Felipe Calderón and Nicolas Sarkozy. The administrations of Sheinbaum and French President Emmanuel Macron have focused on reviving cultural cooperation. In a gesture marking the 200th anniversary of diplomatic relations, France loaned the Azcatitlan Codex to Mexico. This historic manuscript, which chronicles the history and migration of pre-Hispanic peoples, will be displayed at Mexico’s National Museum of Anthropology and History.
These cultural exchanges underscore a strategic effort by Mexico to mend and enhance diplomatic relations with Spain and France through shared cultural heritage and mutual recognition. The approach has been described by Mexican officials as an embodiment of cultural diplomacy, fostering goodwill and collaboration.