Mexico is convinced of the irreplaceable value of diplomacy, with its outstanding multilateral tradition and demonstrated capacity to engage in dialogue and build consensus. It is in this spirit that we participate in MIKTA – an informal consultation space that also includes Australia, Indonesia, the Republic of Korea and Turkey
As these five countries, we have a significant presence on the international stage. We decided to come together, as friends and partners, to promote common priorities and explore innovative strategies to take on global challenges. Located in different regions and possessing unique historical identities and cultural wealth, we also have shared interests that motivate us to come closer together, enhance our mutual understanding and expand our economic and social ties.
At the Vice-Ministerial meeting, held on 7th February 2019 in Yogyakarta, Indonesia, we took over the coordination of MIKTA and Mexico’s proposed agenda was adopted, which seeks to address the needs and aspirations of our peoples directly.
With the theme “Social development, global governance and a sustainable future”, we are seeking to increase MIKTA’s collaboration in three main areas.
First is economic cooperation for social development. Here we will promote trade and investment, both among ourselves and in other key markets, fostering the greater integration of micro, small and medium-sized enterprises into global supply chains. We will also boost tourism cooperation, sharing best practices and technical expertise to generate greater benefits for recipient communities.
The second area is strengthening multilateralism and collaboration in international organisations. MIKTA will join efforts to increase efficiency, transparency and equality in international organisations, and to mainstream the gender perspective. We will uphold a strong, open and rules-based international system that contributes to economic and social development, human rights protection, international peace and security, and cooperation.
We will promote trade and investment, both among ourselves and in other key markets, fostering the greater integration of micro, small and medium-sized enterprises into global supply chains
Thirdly, we will promote sustainable development with an emphasis on achieving the 2030 Agenda. Our societies demand greater actions to address climate change and other major global challenges, as well as greater cooperation to reduce the risks of natural disasters, to which we are all exposed. Furthermore, as maritime countries, we share an interest in protecting the oceans and their biodiversity. Social inclusion is also a common goal, and to this end, we will continue work in the fields of education and internet access.
An additional innovation in Mexico’s MIKTA coordination will be the convening of the first meeting of our national development cooperation agencies. In this context, during the Yogyakarta meeting, we shared the ongoing activities on the implement of the Comprehensive Development Plan launched jointly by El Salvador, Guatemala, Honduras and Mexico, as an example of human-centred cooperation.
MIKTA’s work is expanding worldwide. Our embassies and consulates communicate constantly. This year they will undertake public and cultural diplomacy activities in order to disseminate our historical richness and our cultural customs and traditions. We have a MIKTA Academic Network that has organised a number of seminars and scholarly publications. We will also incorporate other civil society actors into our joint efforts and actions, working together with them to boost economic and tourism promotion.
No country can effectively address international challenges on its own. MIKTA continues to evolve as a multilateral space that aims to play a constructive role in a complex international scenario. Mexico will strengthen collaboration among the five MIKTA countries during 2019, with the end goal of increasing the inclusiveness and prosperity of our societies.