President Trump has threatened sanctions against Mexico due to a water-sharing treaty dispute. Mexico is accused of failing to deliver required water to Texas, with ongoing drought conditions cited as a reason. Efforts to increase water deliveries are underway, but Mexico still faces challenges in meeting its obligations under the treaty.
On Thursday, President Donald Trump threatened Mexico with sanctions and tariffs regarding a water-sharing dispute, alleging that Mexico is breaching an 81-year treaty and “stealing water from Texas farmers.” The 1944 treaty mandates Mexico to deliver 1.75 million acre-feet of water to the United States from the Rio Grande every five years, yet, less than 30 percent of the required water has been supplied according to the International Boundary and Water Commission.
Trump highlighted that “Mexico owes Texas 1.3 million acre-feet of water under the 1944 Water Treaty,” asserting that strict measures, including tariffs and potentially sanctions, will be implemented until Mexico complies with its obligations. In contrast, Mexican President Claudia Sheinbaum stated that the country has adhered to treaty terms “to the extent water is available” amidst a three-year drought. She also indicated that Mexico had submitted a proposal to address water supply issues.
The treaty allows for leniency in the event of drought conditions, which Mexican officials cite as a reason for their inability to meet water commitments. The treaty also requires the US to provide 1.5 million acre-feet of water annually to Mexico, an obligation that has mostly been met despite recent reductions due to drought.
Critics argue that Mexico’s agricultural sectors contribute to excessive water consumption, exacerbating the challenges faced by Texas farmers reliant upon the water supply. Amidst growing concerns about possible trade implications, Mexico is reportedly working on plans to enhance water delivery, agreeing to send 122,000 acre-feet of water and exploring options to send an additional 81,000.
However, even with these commitments, Mexico will still be short of fulfilling its treaty obligations, having sent less than 40 percent of the required water. Tension is expected to rise as Mexico’s federal government seeks to balance water supplies with the demands posed by northern states that are protective of their resources, especially following a past confrontation involving the National Guard and farmers over water distribution.
In summary, tensions between the United States and Mexico stem from a water-sharing treaty that has not been upheld by Mexico, leading President Trump to threaten sanctions and tariffs. The ongoing drought complicates Mexico’s ability to meet its obligations, as they work toward proposals for increased water delivery to Texas. Despite these efforts, significant challenges remain, exacerbated by local demand and climatic conditions.
Original Source: www.business-standard.com
