President Obama spoke by phone with Mexican President Enrique Pena Nieto on Monday, hours after his Republican successor promised to immediately deport as many as 3 million criminal illegal immigrants once he assumes office in January.
Obama and the leader of Mexico discussed how both countries have deepened their economic relations over the course of his administration and worked together to strengthen the observance of the rule of law at the border, according to a readout of their conversation.
“President Obama conveyed how much the United States values and depends upon its relationship and collaboration with Mexico,” the White House said in a statement, adding that Pena Nieto thanked Obama for “being a steadfast friend of the Mexican people and a committed partner” to America’s Southern neighbor.
The call comes two months after President-elect Trump met with Pena Nieto during a visit to Mexico City, after which he assured those who supported his candidacy that Mexico would pay for the Southern border wall he intends to build.
The incoming Republican president spoke with Pena Nieto hours after his sweeping electoral victory last week and Mexican news outlets have reported that the two could meet again before Trump enters the White House in January.
Both Obama and Pena Nieto are expected to attend the Asia-Pacific Economic Cooperation Summit in Lima, Peru this weekend.
