By Natalia Rueda 
The Canadian government made the decision to re-impose visa requirements for travelers from Mexico, effective tomorrow, February 29. This announcement, made on February 28, raised concerns about the strained relations between the two North American nations.
The decision to reintroduce visas for Mexican travelers comes after Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau expressed concern over the growing number of asylum seekers entering the country.
The move has caused tension between the two nations, and President Lopez Obrador expressed disappointment and surprise in a televised speech on Wednesday. He criticized the decision as a “unilateral measure” and suggested it may be politically motivated, citing Mexico’s upcoming elections as a possible factor.
However, the measure will not affect all Mexicans as there are several exemptions to the visa requirement. Mexicans who have already obtained a visa for Canada in the last 10 years or who have held a certain type of visa in the United States during the same period will be exempt. In addition, Mexicans coming to Canada to study or work will also be exempt.
The lifting of visas for Mexicans in 2016 was a major move by Canada to improve trade relations with its neighbor. Prime Minister Trudeau has stated that the visa requirement was a decision made in consultation with the Mexican government, but President López Obrador has proposed not attending the North American Leaders’ Summit, scheduled for Canada, in response to this decision. “If there is no respectful treatment, I will not participate” said the president. This leaves the future of the summit and the relationship between Canada and Mexico uncertain.
As the situation develops, it remains to be seen what the long-term effects of this measure will be and what the Mexican government’s response will be.