United States and Mexico Pledge Billions for ‘Infrastructure Modernization Effort’ at the Border

The United States and Mexico have agreed to invest nearly $5 billion to improve infrastructure along the 2,000-mile border between the two countries.

President Joe Biden’s Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act includes a $3.4 billion investment in infrastructure at land ports of entry along the border with Mexico.

These projects will “create good-paying local jobs, bolster safety and security, and make the economy more resilient to supply chain challenges,” said Biden and Mexican President Andrés Manuel López Obrador in a joint statement on July 12.

In addition, Mexico will fund $1.5 billion in border infrastructure between 2022 and 2024.

“Borders that are more resilient, more efficient, and safer, will enhance our shared commerce. We are committed like never before to completing a multi-year joint U.S.-Mexico border infrastructure modernization effort for projects along the 2,000-mile border,” the leaders stated.

The presidents committed to maintaining “strong border enforcement policies” while ensuring that human rights are protected. For migrants seeking access to “legal pathways,” the joint statement promised to promote “greater worker protections.” The two nations plan on convening a working group for a response to the issue of child migration.

They also committed to go after the “multi-billion-dollar criminal smuggling industry” which is “preying” on migrants. The Mexico Attorney General’s Office and Washington’s Department of Justice and Department of Homeland Security have coordinated to arrest and prosecute individuals involved in related crimes.

Biden met with Obrador in the Oval Office and talked about several issues, including illegal immigration.

In June, Obrador boycotted the “Summit of the Americas” held in Washington, as the leaders from South American countries of Venezuela, Nicaragua, and Cuba were not invited to the event.

Illegal Migrant Crossing

The joint statement to build and modernize border infrastructure comes amid a spike in illegal border crossings under the Biden administration.

Data from U.S. Customs

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