Clinton in Mexico

* Re “Clinton’s Mexico Trip Offers Fence-Mending Opportunity,” editorial, April 21:

It is difficult to see how it will be possible for President Clinton to do much “fence-mending” with Mexico, given its leaders’ most recent comments and actions.

Mexican officials insist that their sovereignty be scrupulously honored while at the same time dismissing our right to enact and enforce laws that protect our sovereignty. Mexico can’t have it both ways. In response to our new immigration laws, the foreign ministry said that Mexico will not tolerate foreign forces dictating and enacting laws on Mexicans. Considering that Mexico strictly enforces its own laws, including immigration laws, on foreigners in its territory, it does seem curious that officials apparently believe that we don’t have the same right to enact and enforce laws that would apply to people, including Mexicans, residing in the United States.

Our bilateral relationship with Mexico is becoming increasingly strained due to many factors you describe in your editorial. President Clinton should clearly and forcefully inform the Mexican leadership that while we will always honor their sovereignty, we expect them to do likewise regarding ours. For him to do anything less would not only be condescending toward Mexico, but would also be a dereliction of his duty as president.

ROSS ROBERTS

Whittier

* I agree that Clinton’s trip to Mexico is overdue and presents an overwhelming opportunity.

It is important to maintain good relations with our neighboring countries. Strengthening our relationship with Mexico could open the door to cooperation with NAFTA. Also, better communication might help us come to terms with a solution to the drug traffic problem. Both are prime reasons why this trip will play a crucial role in determining our future affiliation with Mexico.

COLLEEN CHANDLEE