The United States’ close relationship with Mexico continues to grow and thrive, says President Trump.

Mexican President Andrés Manuel López Obrador visited the White House July 8 for the first time since taking office in 2018. The two leaders discussed their two countries’ bilateral partnership and the recently implemented U.S.-Mexico-Canada Agreement (USMCA).

During the visit, Trump and López Obrador signed a joint declaration between the U.S. and Mexico for sharing a future of prosperity, security and harmony.

President Trump and Mexican President Andrés Manuel López Obrador holding signed documents (© Jim Watson/AFP/Getty Images)
President Trump (right) and Mexican President López Obrador hold up a joint declaration July 8 in Washington. (© Jim Watson/AFP/Getty Images)

“This is truly a proud moment in history for both of our nations, Mexico and the United States,” Trump said. “With this signing, we pledge the close and continued friendship between the United States and Mexico, and we accelerate our progress toward an even greater tomorrow.”

Signed this past January, the USMCA will help U.S., Mexican and Canadian businesses and consumers. It supports North American manufacturing projects to bolster the region’s economies and protect intellectual property — including trade secrets, digital services and financial services. The agreement went into effect July 1.

Trump and López Obrador also discussed the U.S. and Mexico’s ongoing commitment to working together to address irregular migration at the U.S.-Mexican border. “Our two governments are also in close cooperation to stop the illicit cross-border flow of drugs and guns, cash and contraband, and very importantly, stopping human trafficking,” Trump said.

The U.S. looks forward to the future of its relationship with Mexico and all of the opportunities that are ahead for the people of both nations, Trump said.

“Mr. President, I’m certain that together we can unlock a future of even greater potential for our children, prosperity for our people, safety for our citizens, and pride for our countries,” Trump said to López Obrador.