The strongest recorded hurricane in Mexico, Agatha has wrecked homes and roads. At least 11 have died and 22 are missing due to the hurricane

Mexico: Agatha Hurricane in Mexico leaves at least 11 dead & 22 missing

Hurricane Agatha made landfall on Mexico's South Pacific coast bringing torrential rains and the threat of flooding to several states. The category two storm is the first hurricane to form in the Eastern Pacific this year

Hurricane Agatha makes landfall in Mexico

Hurricane Agatha made landfall on Mexico's south pacific coast bringing torrential rain and the threat of flooding to several states.

Mexico: Hurricane Agatha makes landfall

Bringing torrential rains and the threat of flooding as the first named storm in the eastern Pacific this year, Hurricane Agatha plowed into beach resorts on Mexico's southern Pacific coast.

Agatha, a Category 2 storm, is the strongest hurricane on record to make landfall in May in the eastern Pacific.

According to the US National Hurricane Centre (NHC), Agatha barreled ashore blowing sustained winds of 105 mph (169 kph) west of the beach town of Puerto Angel in Oaxaca state, before weakening as it moved inland.

"Rapid weakening is expected as the hurricane moves farther inland. Agatha is forecast to weaken to a tropical storm tonight, and dissipate over southeastern Mexico by late Tuesday," it said.

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Civil protection coordinator Oscar Valencia told the Milenio television channel that authorities have opened around 200 storm shelters with room for up to 26,800 people.

According to him, hotels provided refuge to the estimated 5,200 national and foreign tourists in the danger zone.

Predicting "life-threatening surf and rip current conditions," and "large and destructive waves," NHC added that "storm surge is expected to produce extremely dangerous coastal flooding".

Mexico's meteorological service warned of possible overflows and landslides in Oaxaca and neighboring Chiapas state, home to several major rivers.

With isolated maximums of 20 inches (500 millimeters), the storm was expected to drop 10 to 16 inches (250 to 400 millimeters) of rain on parts of Oaxaca according to NHC.

While a rock and mudslide blocked the highway between that town and the state capital, Oaxaca state’s civil defense agency showed families hustling into a shelter in Pochutla.

Grace, a Category 3 hurricane, was the deadliest storm that hit Mexico as it killed 11 people in the eastern states of Veracruz and Puebla.

(With inputs from agencies)

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Bringing torrential rains and the threat of flooding as the first named storm in the eastern Pacific this year, Hurricane Agatha plowed into beach resorts on Mexico's southern Pacific coast.

Bringing torrential rains and the threat of flooding as the first named storm in the eastern Pacific this year, Hurricane Agatha plowed into beach resorts on Mexico's southern Pacific coast. Agatha, a Category 2 storm, is the strongest hurricane on record to make landfall in May in the eastern Pacific. According to the US National Hurricane Centre (NHC), Agatha barreled ashore blowing sustained winds of 105 mph (169 kph) west of the beach town of Puerto Angel in Oaxaca state, before weakening as it moved inland. "Rapid weakening is expected as the hurricane moves farther inland. Agatha is forecast to weaken to a tropical storm tonight, and dissipate over southeastern Mexico by late Tuesday," it said. Civil protection coordinator Oscar Valencia told the Milenio television channel that authorities have opened around 200 storm shelters with room for up to 26,800 people. According to him, hotels provided refuge to the estimated 5,200 national and foreign tourists in the danger zone. Predicting "life-threatening surf and rip current conditions," and "large and destructive waves," NHC added that "storm surge is expected to produce extremely dangerous coastal flooding". Mexico's meteorological service warned of possible overflows and landslides in Oaxaca and neighboring Chiapas state, home to several major rivers. With isolated maximums of 20 inches (500 millimeters), the storm was expected to drop 10 to 16 inches (250 to 400 millimeters) of rain on parts of Oaxaca according to NHC. While a rock and mudslide blocked the highway between that town and the state capital, Oaxaca state’s civil defense agency showed families hustling into a shelter in Pochutla. Grace, a Category 3 hurricane, was the deadliest storm that hit Mexico as it killed 11 people in the eastern states of Veracruz and Puebla. (With inputs from agencies) Watch WION's live TV here:

Hurricane Agatha: Pacific season’s first hurricane makes landfall in Mexico

A group of Archaeologists have discovered the ruins of what they believe was an ancient Mayan city. The city estimated to have been active in 600-900 A.D. Watch this report!

Archaeologists discover ruins of ancient Mayan city in Mexico

The centuries-old ruins of an ancient Mayan city have been uncovered by archaeologists, who were working in the Yucatan region of Mexico, news agency Reuters reported on Friday (May 27). The city is filled with palaces, pyramids and plazas. The site where the ancient city has been uncovered is a construction site of what will become an industrial park near Merida on the Yucatan Peninsula. For the unversed, the Maya civilization was a Mesoamerican civilization developed by the Maya people. They are noted for their sophisticated and highly developed writing system - logosyllabic script and also hailed for art, architecture, calendar, mathematics and astronomical system.&nbsp;

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/science/strongly-bonded-male-baboons-hold-each-other-back-when-it-comes-to-finding-a-mate-study-tells-482758">'Strongly bonded' male baboons hold each other back when it comes to finding a mate, study tells</a>

As per the report, the site is called Xiol, which means "the spirit of man". The archaeologists said that it has features of the Mayan Puuc style of architecture, which is common in the southern Yucatan Peninsula but rare near Merida.&nbsp;

Carlos Peraza, who is one of the archaeologists who led the excavation of the city, said, "We think more than 4,000 people lived around here." He noted that the people were estimated to have been occupied from 600-900 A.D.

Peraza added, "There were people from different social classes... priests, scribes, who lived in these great palaces, and there were also the common people who lived in small buildings."&nbsp;

ALSO READ&nbsp;|&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/science/watch-this-adorable-robotic-crab-is-the-smallest-ever-remote-controlled-walking-robot-482754">This adorable robotic crab is the 'smallest-ever' remote-controlled walking robot</a>

<img alt="Mayan city" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="795c0d18-d82e-4648-98c3-6efbe22c97f0" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/Mayan%20city.jpg" />

<img alt="Mayan city" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="7fec7a90-1702-4ab7-a162-1d6ca1044aea" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/Mayan%20city%20%282%29.jpg" />

<img alt="Mayan city" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="251ddcab-2f42-4312-b19e-998f91aafb29" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/Mayan%20city%20%283%29.jpg" />

Pictures were taken May 26, 2022. (All image credit: Reuters)

As per the report, burial grounds of adults and children have been located nearby. Reuters mentioned that remains of marine life were also discovered in the area. It suggests that the inhabitants of the city complemented their agricultural-based diets by fishing.&nbsp;

According to the owners of the land, Xiol was discovered after construction began on an industrial park. It has been understood that they will still be built, although the archaeological remains will be preserved. &nbsp;

"With time, urban sprawl (in the area) has grown and many of the archaeological remains have been destroyed... but even we as archaeologists are surprised, because we did not expect to find a site so well preserved," Peraza said.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)

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The centuries-old ruins of an ancient Mayan city have been uncovered by archaeologists, who were working in the Yucatan region of Mexico, news agency Reuters reported on Friday (May 27).

The centuries-old ruins of an ancient Mayan city have been uncovered by archaeologists, who were working in the Yucatan region of Mexico, news agency Reuters reported on Friday (May 27). The city is filled with palaces, pyramids and plazas. The site where the ancient city has been uncovered is a construction site of what will become an industrial park near Merida on the Yucatan Peninsula. For the unversed, the Maya civilization was a Mesoamerican civilization developed by the Maya people. They are noted for their sophisticated and highly developed writing system - logosyllabic script and also hailed for art, architecture, calendar, mathematics and astronomical system. ALSO READ | 'Strongly bonded' male baboons hold each other back when it comes to finding a mate, study tells As per the report, the site is called Xiol, which means "the spirit of man". The archaeologists said that it has features of the Mayan Puuc style of architecture, which is common in the southern Yucatan Peninsula but rare near Merida. Carlos Peraza, who is one of the archaeologists who led the excavation of the city, said, "We think more than 4,000 people lived around here." He noted that the people were estimated to have been occupied from 600-900 A.D. Peraza added, "There were people from different social classes... priests, scribes, who lived in these great palaces, and there were also the common people who lived in small buildings." ALSO READ | This adorable robotic crab is the 'smallest-ever' remote-controlled walking robot Pictures were taken May 26, 2022. (All image credit: Reuters) As per the report, burial grounds of adults and children have been located nearby. Reuters mentioned that remains of marine life were also discovered in the area. It suggests that the inhabitants of the city complemented their agricultural-based diets by fishing. According to the owners of the land, Xiol was discovered after construction began on an industrial park. It has been understood that they will still be built, although the archaeological remains will be preserved. "With time, urban sprawl (in the area) has grown and many of the archaeological remains have been destroyed... but even we as archaeologists are surprised, because we did not expect to find a site so well preserved," Peraza said. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here. >

Archaeologists discover ancient Mayan city at construction site in Mexico - see pics

Boeing’s Starliner space capsule landed in the New Mexico desert Wednesday, completing a six-day mission in which it finally reached the International Space Station and that could lead to flights with astronauts.

Boeing Starliner capsule returns to Earth from ISS

Officials have discovered a tunnel linking US & Mexico. It is suspected that the tunnel was used to smuggle drugs. The tunnel runs from Mexico to a warehouse in California. The tunnel reportedly has rail & ventilation systems, electricity & reinforced walls. US authorities said it was unknown how long the tunnel had been operating. The owner of the property said he was unaware of the tunnel’s existence

This secret drug tunnel was used to smuggle drugs

Mennonites: In Mexico, a decade of images shows a community's traditions frozen in time

The United States is preparing for an expected migrant surge as Mexico steps up security at the border. Meanwhile, migrants are waiting for the end of title 42.

The US prepares for the expected migrant surge: Mexico steps up security at the border

Mexicans in this Zitlala are fighting with each other. Men and women were dressed as tigers and whipped each other mercilessly. It is a traditional ceremony, but for what?

Mexicans are fighting each other dressed as tigers, but why?

Mexican authorities said on Thurday that a journalist has been murdered in the country's northwestern region. This is a ninth such killing in the country. This year has been expecially violent for press in Mexico.

Sara Quinonez, Attorney General of Mexico's Sinaloa state, said on Twitter that body of journalist Luis Enrique Ramirez (59) was found on a dirt road in Sinaloa.

Sinaloa is the stronghold of notorious narco kingpin Joaquin "El Chapo" Guzman's cartel and one of the Mexican states most affected by drug-related violence.

Ramirez, the slain journalist, was a columnist working with local newspaper El Debate. He was also founder of the website Fuentes Fidedingnas.

He previously worked for the national newspapers El Financiero, El Nacional and La Jornada.

His columns scrutinized the actions of politicians in his region.

In his last article before his death, Ramirez had reported that a man had insulted him in a restaurant. He did not identify the man in the article.

His body was found on the outskirts of the state capital Culiacan, a day after he went missing.

"It was definitely a murder," said Balbina Flores, representative of media rights group Reporters Without Borders (RSF), adding that the corpse was found wrapped in plastic.

Ramirez is the ninth journalist killed so far this year in Mexico, according to RSF.

(With inputs from agencies)

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Mexican authorities said on Thurday that a journalist has been murdered in the country's northwestern region. This is a ninth such killing in the country. This year has been expecially violent for press in Mexico.

Mexican authorities said on Thurday that a journalist has been murdered in the country's northwestern region. This is a ninth such killing in the country. This year has been expecially violent for press in Mexico. Sara Quinonez, Attorney General of Mexico's Sinaloa state, said on Twitter that body of journalist Luis Enrique Ramirez (59) was found on a dirt road in Sinaloa. Sinaloa is the stronghold of notorious narco kingpin Joaquin "El Chapo" Guzman's cartel and one of the Mexican states most affected by drug-related violence. Ramirez, the slain journalist, was a columnist working with local newspaper El Debate. He was also founder of the website Fuentes Fidedingnas. He previously worked for the national newspapers El Financiero, El Nacional and La Jornada. His columns scrutinized the actions of politicians in his region. In his last article before his death, Ramirez had reported that a man had insulted him in a restaurant. He did not identify the man in the article. His body was found on the outskirts of the state capital Culiacan, a day after he went missing. "It was definitely a murder," said Balbina Flores, representative of media rights group Reporters Without Borders (RSF), adding that the corpse was found wrapped in plastic. Ramirez is the ninth journalist killed so far this year in Mexico, according to RSF. (With inputs from agencies) Decode the geostrategy, diplomacy, and ideologies of the world’s unending wars. Catch our special series ‘World at War’ every Saturday at 8:30 PM IST and Sunday at 10:30 PM IST only on WION. WATCH WION LIVE HERE ×

Another journalist murdered in Mexico, ninth this year

Fishing is posing a threat to the world's smallest marine mammal, vaquita porpoises as per a study published in the journal Science.

With only 10 vaquitas left in their sole habitat within Mexico's Gulf of California, they are on the edge of extinction.

In their research, scientists have also said that they have not been doomed by inbreeding which causes a lack of genetic diversity.

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Jacqueline Robinson, the study's lead author and a scientist at the University of California San Francisco told AFP that "We're trying to push back on this idea that there's no hope, that nothing we do could save them at this point. It's just not an accurate assumption."

After analysing genomes of 20 vaquitas, researchers believe that to save the marine mammals can recover if illegal "gillnet" fishing ceases immediately.&nbsp;

Porpoises, measure four to five feet, are closely related to dolphins, and are shy and elusive in nature.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/science/scientists-use-human-heart-cells-to-power-an-artificial-fish-453586">Also read |&nbsp;Scientists use human heart cells to power an artificial fish</a>

Vaquitas means ''little cow'' in Spanish, have relatively large dorsal fins and are thought to help them dissipate from heat.

Robinson said "Generally, we would think of low genetic diversity as being a bad thing. But in this case, it is somewhat advantageous for the vaquitas for their possibility of future recovery."&nbsp;

Between 1985 and 2017, the population of vaquitas decimated in the 20th century from 576 to ten.

Vaquitas, in particular the totoaba which is endangered, have a swim-bladder and are prized in traditional Chinese medicine.

(With inputs from agencies)

Fishing is posing a threat to the world's smallest marine mammal, vaquita porpoises as per a study published in the journal Science. With only 10 vaquitas left in their sole habitat within Mexico's Gulf of California, they are on the edge of extinction.

Fishing is posing a threat to the world's smallest marine mammal, vaquita porpoises as per a study published in the journal Science. With only 10 vaquitas left in their sole habitat within Mexico's Gulf of California, they are on the edge of extinction. In their research, scientists have also said that they have not been doomed by inbreeding which causes a lack of genetic diversity. Jacqueline Robinson, the study's lead author and a scientist at the University of California San Francisco told AFP that "We're trying to push back on this idea that there's no hope, that nothing we do could save them at this point. It's just not an accurate assumption." After analysing genomes of 20 vaquitas, researchers believe that to save the marine mammals can recover if illegal "gillnet" fishing ceases immediately. Porpoises, measure four to five feet, are closely related to dolphins, and are shy and elusive in nature. Also read | Scientists use human heart cells to power an artificial fish Vaquitas means ''little cow'' in Spanish, have relatively large dorsal fins and are thought to help them dissipate from heat. Robinson said "Generally, we would think of low genetic diversity as being a bad thing. But in this case, it is somewhat advantageous for the vaquitas for their possibility of future recovery." Between 1985 and 2017, the population of vaquitas decimated in the 20th century from 576 to ten. Vaquitas, in particular the totoaba which is endangered, have a swim-bladder and are prized in traditional Chinese medicine. (With inputs from agencies)

Vaquita porpoises: Fishing poses a threat to the world's smallest marine mammal

Thousands of residents of mountain towns in New Mexico were told to evacuate as fierce winds drove the largest active US wildfire towards their drought-parched mountain valley.

Raging wildfire prompt evacuations in New Mexico

Thousands of residents of Las Vegas in new Mexico were told to prepare for possible evacuation on Sunday. Fierce winds drove the largest active US wildfire through drought-patched forests leading to the sudden calls for evacuation.

New Mexico: Wildfires destroy more than 300 properties

In Mexico, 10 women are killed in a day on average. Recently, a teenager's death sparked outrage in Mexico. The victim's father said authorities mishandled the death probe and hundreds of protesters are demanding justice for the killed teen.

Teen's death sparks outrage in Mexico, hundreds of protesters demand justice

Killing of teenage girl amplifies gender violence protests in Mexico

The impact of climate change is being felt around the world in Mexico, record-breaking temperatures are being reported in most states. Authorities have also warned against sun exposure in Mexico

Global warming fallout: Heatwave, droughts hit Mexican states

Mexican drug cartels appear to be shipping high-powered weapons to Colombia to purchase shipments of cocaine. Colombian authorities are scared because this trade might fuel a deadly struggle between rival traffickers for control of drug routes.

Colombia: Drug cartels found shipping weapons, officials say trade fueling violence

Which leader asks citizens to vote him out? Mexico's President Lopez Obrador just did. Obrador held a referendum, asking Mexicans whether he, the President, should step down. What was the result? Palki Sharma Upadhyay brings you a report.

Gravitas: Mexico's Obrador wins historic referendum

The migrant crisis at the US-Mexico border continues as teens are being employed to avoid legal actions. There has been a rise in the number of crashes by teens reportedly.

Migrant crisis at the US-Mexico border: Teens employed to avoid legal actions

Mexican President Andres Manuel Lopez Obrador on Sunday easily survived a divisive referendum on whether he should step down or complete his term -- a vote marked by low turnout, initial results showed.

With an approval rating of nearly 60 per cent, Lopez Obrador's presidency had never appeared seriously at risk, and the left-wing populist was himself one of the vote's biggest cheerleaders.

The 68-year-old president, elected in 2018 for a six-year term, won a majority of around 90.3-91.9 per cent in favor of his staying in office until 2024, according to a preliminary vote count by the National Electoral Institute.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/in-unusual-step-mexico-president-asks-voters-if-he-should-go-469282">In an unusual step, Mexico president asks voters if he should go</a>

The turnout rate was between 17 and 18.2 per cent, meaning that even if Lopez Obrador had lost, the result would not have been legally binding.

Supporters of the referendum -- the first of its kind in Mexico -- said it was a way of increasing democratic accountability, giving voters the opportunity to remove the president due to loss of confidence.

"Now we have the chance to change what's not right. There have been presidents who, after being elected by the people, ended up serving other interests," Benigno Gasca, a 57-year-old mathematician and musician, told AFP.

Useless exercise

But critics saw it as expensive propaganda and an unnecessary distraction from the many challenges facing the country, including drug-related violence, poverty and the rising cost of living.

"It's a useless exercise -- money thrown away," said Laura Gonzalez, a 62-year-old retired teacher.

Lopez Obrador cast his vote early Sunday with his wife at a polling station near the presidential palace.

"Let no one forget that the people are in charge," he declared afterwards.

Mexico's constitution limits presidents to one term, and Lopez Obrador has vowed to retire in 2024, following accusations by opponents that the referendum was a step towards trying to stay in power beyond then.

Watch |&nbsp;India is an important partner in Trade, Space says Mexico Foreign minister Ebrard

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Mario Delgado, leader of the ruling party Morena, said voters had recognized Lopez Obrador's "dedication to the most needy and the enormous moral authority with which he governs."

"Only an indomitable, unwavering democrat like him can subject himself to a recall process," he added.

But Marko Cortes, of the conservative opposition party PAN, said the vote was marked "by illegality, lies, manipulation and the diversion of public resources."

Alejandro Moreno of the PRI, which ruled Mexico for seven decades until 2000, tweeted that Morena had turned the referendum into a "mockery" to "satisfy its own ego and continue deceiving Mexicans."

Sustenance of democracy

Some 93 million voters were eligible to participate in the midterm referendum, which was incorporated into Mexico's constitution in 2019 at Lopez Obrador's initiative.

Most of the signatures that were collected in order for the vote to happen came from his supporters.

Experts had predicted that a win could give impetus to Lopez Obrador's policy agenda, such as controversial energy reforms.

The president also has his eye on the 2024 elections and the prospects for his party and possible successors, including Mexico City Mayor Claudia Sheinbaum.

Lopez Obrador enjoyed an approval rating of 58 per cent in March, although that was far below a peak of 81 per cent seen in February 2019, according to a poll of polls by the Oraculus&nbsp;firm.

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Carmen Sobrino, a 64-year-old housewife, said she heeded the call to vote because she was happy with Lopez Obrador.

"I hope he continues," she said after casting her ballot in the capital.

Another voter, 59-year-old economist Flor Mercedes Rodriguez, saw the referendum as a chance to "resume the culture of citizen participation... It's the sustenance of democracy."

The president accused the National Electoral Institute before the vote of sabotaging the exercise in collusion with his political opponents by failing to do enough to promote it.

Mexican President Andres Manuel Lopez Obrador on Sunday easily survived a divisive referendum on whether he should step down or complete his term -- a vote marked by low turnout, initial results showed.

Mexican President Andres Manuel Lopez Obrador on Sunday easily survived a divisive referendum on whether he should step down or complete his term -- a vote marked by low turnout, initial results showed. With an approval rating of nearly 60 per cent, Lopez Obrador's presidency had never appeared seriously at risk, and the left-wing populist was himself one of the vote's biggest cheerleaders. The 68-year-old president, elected in 2018 for a six-year term, won a majority of around 90.3-91.9 per cent in favor of his staying in office until 2024, according to a preliminary vote count by the National Electoral Institute. Also read | In an unusual step, Mexico president asks voters if he should go The turnout rate was between 17 and 18.2 per cent, meaning that even if Lopez Obrador had lost, the result would not have been legally binding. Supporters of the referendum -- the first of its kind in Mexico -- said it was a way of increasing democratic accountability, giving voters the opportunity to remove the president due to loss of confidence. "Now we have the chance to change what's not right. There have been presidents who, after being elected by the people, ended up serving other interests," Benigno Gasca, a 57-year-old mathematician and musician, told AFP. Useless exercise But critics saw it as expensive propaganda and an unnecessary distraction from the many challenges facing the country, including drug-related violence, poverty and the rising cost of living. "It's a useless exercise -- money thrown away," said Laura Gonzalez, a 62-year-old retired teacher. Lopez Obrador cast his vote early Sunday with his wife at a polling station near the presidential palace. "Let no one forget that the people are in charge," he declared afterwards. Mexico's constitution limits presidents to one term, and Lopez Obrador has vowed to retire in 2024, following accusations by opponents that the referendum was a step towards trying to stay in power beyond then. Watch | India is an important partner in Trade, Space says Mexico Foreign minister Ebrard Mario Delgado, leader of the ruling party Morena, said voters had recognized Lopez Obrador's "dedication to the most needy and the enormous moral authority with which he governs." "Only an indomitable, unwavering democrat like him can subject himself to a recall process," he added. But Marko Cortes, of the conservative opposition party PAN, said the vote was marked "by illegality, lies, manipulation and the diversion of public resources." Alejandro Moreno of the PRI, which ruled Mexico for seven decades until 2000, tweeted that Morena had turned the referendum into a "mockery" to "satisfy its own ego and continue deceiving Mexicans." Sustenance of democracy Some 93 million voters were eligible to participate in the midterm referendum, which was incorporated into Mexico's constitution in 2019 at Lopez Obrador's initiative. Most of the signatures that were collected in order for the vote to happen came from his supporters. Experts had predicted that a win could give impetus to Lopez Obrador's policy agenda, such as controversial energy reforms. The president also has his eye on the 2024 elections and the prospects for his party and possible successors, including Mexico City Mayor Claudia Sheinbaum. Lopez Obrador enjoyed an approval rating of 58 per cent in March, although that was far below a peak of 81 per cent seen in February 2019, according to a poll of polls by the Oraculus firm. Also read | Space and pharma to be key focus of Mexico FM’s India visit on Wednesday Carmen Sobrino, a 64-year-old housewife, said she heeded the call to vote because she was happy with Lopez Obrador. "I hope he continues," she said after casting her ballot in the capital. Another voter, 59-year-old economist Flor Mercedes Rodriguez, saw the referendum as a chance to "resume the culture of citizen participation... It's the sustenance of democracy." The president accused the National Electoral Institute before the vote of sabotaging the exercise in collusion with his political opponents by failing to do enough to promote it.

Mexico President survives recall vote marked by low turnout, doesn't have to step down

Mexicans&nbsp;will&nbsp;vote&nbsp;Sunday in a divisive national referendum championed by&nbsp;President&nbsp;Andres Manuel Lopez Obrador on&nbsp;whether&nbsp;he&nbsp;should&nbsp;step down or complete his six-year term.

While recall&nbsp;elections&nbsp;in other countries tend to be initiated by political opponents, Mexico's&nbsp;vote&nbsp;is the brainchild of Lopez Obrador, who enjoys an approval rating of nearly 60 per cent.

The 68-year-old&nbsp;president, who was elected in 2018, and other supporters of the referendum -- the first of its kind in Mexico -- say it is a way of increasing democratic accountability.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/in-unusual-step-mexico-president-asks-voters-if-he-should-go-469282">In an unusual step, Mexico president asks voters if he should go</a>

"Now we have the chance to change what's not right. There have been presidents who, after being elected by the people, ended up serving other interests," Benigno Gasca, a 57-year-old mathematician and musician, told AFP.

But critics see it as an expensive propaganda exercise and an unnecessary distraction from the many challenges facing the country, including drug-related violence, poverty and the rising cost of living.

"It's a useless exercise,&nbsp;money thrown away," said Laura Gonzalez, a 62-year-old retired teacher.

Experts say turnout is likely to be well below the 40-percent level needed for the&nbsp;vote&nbsp;to be legally binding.

Opposition parties have urged&nbsp;Mexicans&nbsp;to abstain from&nbsp;voting&nbsp;in what they call a "populist exercise."

Eyes on turnout&nbsp;

Some 93 million voters will be able to participate in the midterm referendum, which was incorporated into Mexico's constitution in 2019 at Lopez Obrador's initiative.

Most of the signatures that were collected in order for the&nbsp;vote&nbsp;to happen came from his supporters.

Given the popularity of the anti-corruption austerity advocate, his presidency is not at risk "at all," said political analyst Martha Anaya.

On the contrary, the referendum could give impetus to his policy agenda, such as controversial energy reforms, she said.

Watch |&nbsp;India is an important partner in Trade, Space says Mexico Foreign minister Ebrard

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/india-is-an-important-partner-in-trade-space-says-mexico-foreign-minister-ebrard-467044/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

The&nbsp;president&nbsp;also has his eye on the 2024&nbsp;elections&nbsp;and the prospects for his party and possible successors, including Mexico City Mayor Claudia Sheinbaum.

The Mexican constitution limits presidents to one term, and Lopez Obrador has vowed to retire in 2024, following accusations by opponents that the referendum is a step towards trying to&nbsp;stay&nbsp;in power.

Lopez Obrador enjoyed an approval rating of 58 percent in March, although that was far below a peak of 81 percent seen in February 2019, according to a poll of polls by the Oraculus&nbsp;firm.

Also read |<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/india-is-an-important-partner-in-trade-space-says-mexico-foreign-minister-ebrard-467045">&nbsp;</a><a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/space-and-pharma-to-be-key-focus-of-mexico-fms-india-visit-tomorrow-466726">Space and pharma to be key focus of Mexico FM’s India visit on Wednesday</a>

The&nbsp;president&nbsp;accuses the National Electoral Institute of sabotaging the referendum in collusion with his political opponents.

The body, which unsuccessfully sought a larger budget, will set up around 57,500 polling stations, compared with 161,000 in a normal national&nbsp;election.

Voting&nbsp;will start at 1300 GMT and end at 2300 GMT in most of the country, with the result expected to be announced late Sunday.

Lopez Obrador has overseen a series of referendums since taking office on controversial issues including his "Maya Train" railroad project, and canceling a partially finished airport for Mexico City.

A public consultation held in August on&nbsp;whether&nbsp;to prosecute his predecessors for alleged corruption drew only a small fraction of voters to the polls.

Mexicans will vote Sunday in a divisive national referendum championed by President Andres Manuel Lopez Obrador on whether he should step down or complete his six-year term.

Mexicans will vote Sunday in a divisive national referendum championed by President Andres Manuel Lopez Obrador on whether he should step down or complete his six-year term. While recall elections in other countries tend to be initiated by political opponents, Mexico's vote is the brainchild of Lopez Obrador, who enjoys an approval rating of nearly 60 per cent. The 68-year-old president, who was elected in 2018, and other supporters of the referendum -- the first of its kind in Mexico -- say it is a way of increasing democratic accountability. Also read | In an unusual step, Mexico president asks voters if he should go "Now we have the chance to change what's not right. There have been presidents who, after being elected by the people, ended up serving other interests," Benigno Gasca, a 57-year-old mathematician and musician, told AFP. But critics see it as an expensive propaganda exercise and an unnecessary distraction from the many challenges facing the country, including drug-related violence, poverty and the rising cost of living. "It's a useless exercise, money thrown away," said Laura Gonzalez, a 62-year-old retired teacher. Experts say turnout is likely to be well below the 40-percent level needed for the vote to be legally binding. Opposition parties have urged Mexicans to abstain from voting in what they call a "populist exercise." Eyes on turnout Some 93 million voters will be able to participate in the midterm referendum, which was incorporated into Mexico's constitution in 2019 at Lopez Obrador's initiative. Most of the signatures that were collected in order for the vote to happen came from his supporters. Given the popularity of the anti-corruption austerity advocate, his presidency is not at risk "at all," said political analyst Martha Anaya. On the contrary, the referendum could give impetus to his policy agenda, such as controversial energy reforms, she said. Watch | India is an important partner in Trade, Space says Mexico Foreign minister Ebrard The president also has his eye on the 2024 elections and the prospects for his party and possible successors, including Mexico City Mayor Claudia Sheinbaum. The Mexican constitution limits presidents to one term, and Lopez Obrador has vowed to retire in 2024, following accusations by opponents that the referendum is a step towards trying to stay in power. Lopez Obrador enjoyed an approval rating of 58 percent in March, although that was far below a peak of 81 percent seen in February 2019, according to a poll of polls by the Oraculus firm. Also read | Space and pharma to be key focus of Mexico FM’s India visit on Wednesday The president accuses the National Electoral Institute of sabotaging the referendum in collusion with his political opponents. The body, which unsuccessfully sought a larger budget, will set up around 57,500 polling stations, compared with 161,000 in a normal national election. Voting will start at 1300 GMT and end at 2300 GMT in most of the country, with the result expected to be announced late Sunday. Lopez Obrador has overseen a series of referendums since taking office on controversial issues including his "Maya Train" railroad project, and canceling a partially finished airport for Mexico City. A public consultation held in August on whether to prosecute his predecessors for alleged corruption drew only a small fraction of voters to the polls.

Mexicans vote whether president should stay or go

Mexico&nbsp;will hold its first presidential recall referendum on Sunday, promoted by President Andres Manuel Lopez Obrador, on whether he should complete his six-year term -- an exercise that has split public opinion.

With an approval rating of nearly 60 per cent, the midterm popularity test appears unlikely to result in Lopez Obrador's early departure.

The president argues that submitting himself to the recall referendum is important for democracy, but critics see it as little more than an expensive propaganda exercise.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/india-is-an-important-partner-in-trade-space-says-mexico-foreign-minister-ebrard-467045">India is an important partner in trade, space says Mexico Foreign Minister Ebrard</a>

The 68-year-old self-styled anti-corruption, the pro-austerity crusader was elected in 2018 vowing to overhaul&nbsp;Mexico's "neoliberal" economic model.

Lopez Obrador has promised not to seek reelection in 2024, following accusations by opponents that the referendum is a step towards changing the rules to enable him to stay in power beyond then.

The Mexican constitution limits presidents to one term.

Lopez Obrador "seeks, like any populist politician, to maintain the climate of polarization and encourage the narrative that the people are on his side," said political consultant Luis Carlos Ugalde, a former head of&nbsp;Mexico's electoral institute.

But Ugalde is sceptical that the vote will smooth the way for Lopez Obrador to stay in office beyond 2024.

"Perhaps there will be voices in his party that say he should stay, but the power of that voice will be minimal," Ugalde said.

A successful result on Sunday could inject momentum into Lopez Obrador's policy agenda, including controversial energy reforms.

Lopez Obrador's Morena party lost its absolute majority in the lower house of Congress in legislative elections last year.

The president also has his eye on the 2024 elections and the prospects for his party and possible successors including&nbsp;Mexico City&nbsp;Mayor Claudia Sheinbaum.

Watch |&nbsp;Gravitas: Why hundreds of birds fell to death in Mexico

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/gravitas-why-hundreds-of-birds-fell-to-death-in-mexico-453597/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

Populist exercise

Lopez Obrador has overseen a series of referendums since taking office on controversial issues including his "Maya Train" railroad project and cancelling a partially finished airport for&nbsp;Mexico City.

A public consultation held in August on whether to prosecute his predecessors for alleged corruption drew only a small fraction of voters to the polls.

The midterm recall referendum was incorporated into&nbsp;Mexico's constitution in 2019 at Lopez Obrador's initiative.

Some 93 million voters will be able to participate, but many are expected to stay home.

The outcome will be overwhelmingly in favour of Lopez Obrador completing his term, although in any case turnout is likely to be below the 40-per cent level needed for the vote to be legally binding, predicted Ugalde.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/space-and-pharma-to-be-key-focus-of-mexico-fms-india-visit-tomorrow-466726">Space and pharma to be key focus of Mexico FM’s India visit on Wednesday</a>

The opposition parties PAN, PRI and PRD have urged Mexicans to abstain from voting in what they call a "populist exercise."

Lopez Obrador enjoyed an approval rating of 58 per cent in March, although that was far below a peak of 81 per cent seen in February 2019, according to a poll of polls by the Oraculus&nbsp;firm.

"It's kind of an oxymoron to have a recall process when you have a popular president," said Jorge Buendia, director of public opinion firm Buendia &amp; Marquez.

"The strongest supporters of the president are those that are going to go to the polls," he told a panel discussion.

Lopez Obrador owes much of his popularity to his social welfare programs aimed at helping the poor and dominates&nbsp;Mexico's news agenda with press conferences lasting up to three hours every weekday.

Lopez Obrador's critics say he is damaging democratic checks and balances with his attacks on bodies including the National Electoral Institute, which the president accuses of undermining the referendum.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/high-level-visits-from-colombia-mexico-to-india-in-few-weeks-461993">High level visits from Colombia, Mexico to India in few weeks</a>

"We will defend the National Electoral Institute, which is under attack by the presidency," said Amado Vazquez, a lawyer attending a protest against Sunday's vote in the western city of Guadalajara.

The referendum is biased in favour of the government and "in no way a citizen's vote," he added.

Mexico will hold its first presidential recall referendum on Sunday, promoted by President Andres Manuel Lopez Obrador, on whether he should complete his six-year term -- an exercise that has split public opinion.

Mexico will hold its first presidential recall referendum on Sunday, promoted by President Andres Manuel Lopez Obrador, on whether he should complete his six-year term -- an exercise that has split public opinion. With an approval rating of nearly 60 per cent, the midterm popularity test appears unlikely to result in Lopez Obrador's early departure. The president argues that submitting himself to the recall referendum is important for democracy, but critics see it as little more than an expensive propaganda exercise. Also read | India is an important partner in trade, space says Mexico Foreign Minister Ebrard The 68-year-old self-styled anti-corruption, the pro-austerity crusader was elected in 2018 vowing to overhaul Mexico's "neoliberal" economic model. Lopez Obrador has promised not to seek reelection in 2024, following accusations by opponents that the referendum is a step towards changing the rules to enable him to stay in power beyond then. The Mexican constitution limits presidents to one term. Lopez Obrador "seeks, like any populist politician, to maintain the climate of polarization and encourage the narrative that the people are on his side," said political consultant Luis Carlos Ugalde, a former head of Mexico's electoral institute. But Ugalde is sceptical that the vote will smooth the way for Lopez Obrador to stay in office beyond 2024. "Perhaps there will be voices in his party that say he should stay, but the power of that voice will be minimal," Ugalde said. A successful result on Sunday could inject momentum into Lopez Obrador's policy agenda, including controversial energy reforms. Lopez Obrador's Morena party lost its absolute majority in the lower house of Congress in legislative elections last year. The president also has his eye on the 2024 elections and the prospects for his party and possible successors including Mexico City Mayor Claudia Sheinbaum. Watch | Gravitas: Why hundreds of birds fell to death in Mexico Populist exercise Lopez Obrador has overseen a series of referendums since taking office on controversial issues including his "Maya Train" railroad project and cancelling a partially finished airport for Mexico City. A public consultation held in August on whether to prosecute his predecessors for alleged corruption drew only a small fraction of voters to the polls. The midterm recall referendum was incorporated into Mexico's constitution in 2019 at Lopez Obrador's initiative. Some 93 million voters will be able to participate, but many are expected to stay home. The outcome will be overwhelmingly in favour of Lopez Obrador completing his term, although in any case turnout is likely to be below the 40-per cent level needed for the vote to be legally binding, predicted Ugalde. Also read | Space and pharma to be key focus of Mexico FM’s India visit on Wednesday The opposition parties PAN, PRI and PRD have urged Mexicans to abstain from voting in what they call a "populist exercise." Lopez Obrador enjoyed an approval rating of 58 per cent in March, although that was far below a peak of 81 per cent seen in February 2019, according to a poll of polls by the Oraculus firm. "It's kind of an oxymoron to have a recall process when you have a popular president," said Jorge Buendia, director of public opinion firm Buendia & Marquez. "The strongest supporters of the president are those that are going to go to the polls," he told a panel discussion. Lopez Obrador owes much of his popularity to his social welfare programs aimed at helping the poor and dominates Mexico's news agenda with press conferences lasting up to three hours every weekday. Lopez Obrador's critics say he is damaging democratic checks and balances with his attacks on bodies including the National Electoral Institute, which the president accuses of undermining the referendum. Also read | High level visits from Colombia, Mexico to India in few weeks "We will defend the National Electoral Institute, which is under attack by the presidency," said Amado Vazquez, a lawyer attending a protest against Sunday's vote in the western city of Guadalajara. The referendum is biased in favour of the government and "in no way a citizen's vote," he added.

In an unusual step, Mexico president asks voters if he should go

Mexico Foreign Minister Marcelo Ebrard Casaubónan, who is on India visit, has termed the country an "important partner" in trade and space. This is the first visit of Marcelo Ebrard Casaubón to India in his capacity as foreign minister, during which he will also visit Mumbai with a big delegation.

Mexico Foreign Minister Marcelo Ebrard Casaubónan, who is on India visit, has termed the country an "important partner" in trade and space. This is the first visit of Marcelo Ebrard Casaubón to India in his capacity as foreign minister, during which he will also visit Mumbai with a big delegation. Speaking to WION's Principal Diplomatic Correspondent Sidhant Sibal, FM Ebrard said, "We have the opportunity for cooperation with India, with production and (scientific) investigation" when it comes to joint production of Covid vaccines. The visit of the foreign minister of Mexico follows EAM Jaishankar's visit to Mexico City in September last year. Currently, Mexico is India’s second-largest trade partner in Latin America and is a non-permanent member of the UNSC alongside India for the period 2021-22. On the Russian invasion of Ukraine, the minister said, "We condemn the invasion, it's an invasion, we are proposing a political solution, to look for a political solution and not to corner each other." Sidhant Sibal: What is your key focus during India visit? Marcelo Ebrard Casaubón: We have a huge opportunity in order to increase our relationship with pharmaceuticals, medicines, learnt from the lessons of the pandemic we collaborate both countries successfully. To expand in this positive experience in this field, also in other fields. Already India is the 9th largest trading partner of Mexico in the world. Sidhant Sibal: What kind of cooperation is there between India and Mexico amid Covid crisis and joint production of vaccines? Marcelo Ebrard Casaubón: We are working and we want to have cooperation and plan production in Mexico, investigation, scientific one between both countries. In Latin America, we are advancing regulatory unification right now because of the lessons of the pandemic. We have different regulations, we waste time and spend time in other to fulfil things, so right now we are unifying the regulatory atmosphere, and we have the opportunity for cooperation with India, with production and investigation. Sidhant Sibal: Science and innovation have been a priority for the relationship. Marcelo Ebrard Casaubón: It's the main drive right now. Sidhant Sibal: We both are non-permanent members of the United Nations Security Council, what kind of consultations both are having? Marcelo Ebrard Casaubón: We are very close on political issues, similar positions in favour of multilateralism, in favour of peaceful solutions to the conflicts. So every day we are in consultations and have common initiatives. Sidhant Sibal: Space is another area of cooperation, what can you tell about this? Marcelo Ebrard Casaubón: We organize in Latin America last year, the Latin America and Caribbean agency for space which right now has the support of 20 countries. This is a new chapter for Latin America and the Caribbean in space. We cannot do alone, each one, but we have 20 countries, same network and budget, you can image the budget and power. So India can be very important for us in this regard because we are in a very similar plans and programs, why not, why not to have direct connection and share some objectives in the future for space. We are going to start in this way. Sidhant Sibal: So sir, do you plan to use Mexico's low-cost space technology to launch Mexican satellites? Marcelo Ebrard Casaubón: Can be, as part of the program. Sidhant Sibal: What are your views about the Indo pacific vision? Marcelo Ebrard Casaubón: Mexico has the presidency of the Pacific alliance, which is an alliance between Chile, Peru, Mexico and Colombia. In near future Ecuador. Recently Singapore joined the group, so the pacific approach and the Indo Pacific approach, you have common ground to work together with India. We want peaceful solution of the conflict; we want to protect the trade and investment and communication between our countries. Mexico is a player in the pacific too.\ Sidhant Sibal: Trade has been the show stopper, and it has grown despite the pandemic. Marcelo Ebrard Casaubón: It's growing, as I mentioned to you, India is right now 9th partner of Mexico in all over the world. It will be 8th, then 7th, and in case of Mexico - India we are climbing and on the right pattern for the future. Sidhant Sibal: And you're going to Mumbai, you have a business delegation, if you can talk about that? Marcelo Ebrard Casaubón: We have a representative delegation to Mumbai, because it's not only political statement but matter of collaboration agreement and that is why we are visiting Mumbai. Sidhant Sibal: Mexico recently led a resolution on humanitarian situation in Ukraine, what is your country's position as to what has happened in Ukraine? Marcelo Ebrard Casaubón: We condemn the invasion, its an invasion, we are proposing a political solution, to look for political solution and not to corner each other, not to escalate the conflict, it doesn't make sense to do this. We need to provide some political space in other to have solution in short term. Not to allow the situation to be a new cold war. Sidhant Sibal: There have been talks in Turkey between the 2 sides, termed as very positive? Marcelo Ebrard Casaubón: We are very excited about this and we want to support any political solution that is in the horizon. That is why see this with a positive approach. Sidhant Sibal: And are you going to talk about this with EAM Dr Jaishankar? Marcelo Ebrard Casaubón: Absolutely, he is a brillant man and a good friend and will talks about this issue. Sidhant Sibal: And perhaps more high-level visits... Marcelo Ebrard Casaubón: Certainly, very soon, we are very close right now, and we are going to be even more in the next months. We are very positive about this relationship. ×

India is an important partner in trade, space says Mexico Foreign Minister Ebrard

A rising&nbsp;TikTok&nbsp;star from a Mennonite community in&nbsp;Mexico&nbsp;that once shunned rubber tires and electricity is embracing technology&nbsp;to give a glimpse of her life through social media.

A century after her ancestors arrived, Marcela Enns, 30, shares anecdotes and answers questions from her more than 350,000 followers with a mixture of pride, humour and sarcasm.

Known on social media as Menonita Mexicana, Enns tries to dispel misconceptions, such as that all Mennonites are religious fanatics or members of an ultra-conservative group cut off from civilization.

She describes her community as a "smoothie" -- a blend of "conservatives" living frozen in time; "traditionals" who wear typical Mennonite clothes but also use technology; and "moderners," who due to their appearance and lifestyle are not visibly Mennonites.

Despite their differences, all Mennonites "live happily as they are," she says.

In her videos, she sometimes dances or mimes to Rihanna songs in a break with the customs of a community that in certain parts of&nbsp;Mexico&nbsp;still rejects the trappings of modern life.

In some of her videos shot in Ciudad Cuauhtemoc in the state of Chihuahua -- where her ancestors settled in 1922 -- she wears traditional dress and a headscarf.&nbsp;

In others, she appears in modern clothes, sunglasses and makeup, speaking in Spanish, English or Low German, the community's native language.&nbsp;

Not all Mennonites have blue eyes and blonde hair, or shun all technology, she tells her followers.

"Often the documentaries that are made are about the most conservative groups and many people think that all Mennonites live like that," she tells AFP in an interview.

Despite "all the videos that I've already made and all the content, many people tell me: 'You can't be a Mennonite because you have a cell phone and that's impossible. I know that the Mennonites don't use cell phones,'" she says.

A few hundred kilometers (miles) away in another Mennonite community, Sabinal, electricity arrived four years ago, followed by tires, cell phones and the internet.&nbsp;

But no one yet has a television.

It was thanks to the fact that some young community members had access to the internet that the villagers discovered in 2020 that the world was facing a pandemic.&nbsp;

Avowed pacifists, they now ask visitors if the war is over yet in Ukraine.

The community used to have around 2,000 inhabitants, but the encroachment of modern life drove half of them away to the state of Campeche in southeastern&nbsp;Mexico.

They left because "they didn't want electricity," says village leader Johan Friesen Brown, 42.

Most of those who stayed were young people, he adds.

The men wear checkered shirts, denim overalls and caps.

The women wear long dresses, sandals and sometimes wide-brimmed hats -- all made themselves.

Jacobo Brown, who runs a village store and a cheese factory, is happy with the changes.

"Now we use electricity for irrigation. It's easier. And we put tires on the tractor to work more comfortably," adds the 50-year-old, who does not yet know how to use wifi.

There are estimated to be roughly 100,000 Mennonites in&nbsp;Mexico, mostly in Chihuahua.

Although their roots are in the Netherlands and Russia, the first Mennonites that immigrated to&nbsp;Mexico&nbsp;came from Canada where they had learnt English.

When they arrived a century ago, then Mexican president Alvaro Obregon "opened the door to them," says Lawrence Taylor, historian at&nbsp;Mexico's El Colegio de la Frontera Norte.&nbsp;

They were allowed to have their own schools and exempted from military service, Taylor says.

Agriculture was their vocation and today their attachment to the land coexists with a gradual shift to modernity, encouraged in Enns' case by the importance her family places on education.&nbsp;

"My grandfather was very rebellious," she says.&nbsp;

As a result, her father was the first in his community to send his children to a public school.

Later, Enns went to Canada as an exchange student.

The influencer began to fall in love with technology at the age of 15 when she had her first camera.

Now, she manages the social media activities of two companies in Cuauhtemoc and, in addition to her&nbsp;TikTok&nbsp;account, also has 166,000 subscribers to her YouTube channel.

Enns, who describes herself as a feminist, praises the Mennonites for their industriousness and sense of solidarity, and wants her popularity to motivate others.

"For me, it means breaking a lot of rules. I hope I can inspire other Mennonite women to be more independent, to be strong and not be afraid to speak their minds," she says.

A rising TikTok star from a Mennonite community in Mexico that once shunned rubber tires and electricity is embracing technology to give a glimpse of her life through social media.

A rising TikTok star from a Mennonite community in Mexico that once shunned rubber tires and electricity is embracing technology to give a glimpse of her life through social media. A century after her ancestors arrived, Marcela Enns, 30, shares anecdotes and answers questions from her more than 350,000 followers with a mixture of pride, humour and sarcasm. Known on social media as Menonita Mexicana, Enns tries to dispel misconceptions, such as that all Mennonites are religious fanatics or members of an ultra-conservative group cut off from civilization. She describes her community as a "smoothie" -- a blend of "conservatives" living frozen in time; "traditionals" who wear typical Mennonite clothes but also use technology; and "moderners," who due to their appearance and lifestyle are not visibly Mennonites. Despite their differences, all Mennonites "live happily as they are," she says. In her videos, she sometimes dances or mimes to Rihanna songs in a break with the customs of a community that in certain parts of Mexico still rejects the trappings of modern life. In some of her videos shot in Ciudad Cuauhtemoc in the state of Chihuahua -- where her ancestors settled in 1922 -- she wears traditional dress and a headscarf. In others, she appears in modern clothes, sunglasses and makeup, speaking in Spanish, English or Low German, the community's native language. Not all Mennonites have blue eyes and blonde hair, or shun all technology, she tells her followers. "Often the documentaries that are made are about the most conservative groups and many people think that all Mennonites live like that," she tells AFP in an interview. Despite "all the videos that I've already made and all the content, many people tell me: 'You can't be a Mennonite because you have a cell phone and that's impossible. I know that the Mennonites don't use cell phones,'" she says. A few hundred kilometers (miles) away in another Mennonite community, Sabinal, electricity arrived four years ago, followed by tires, cell phones and the internet. But no one yet has a television. It was thanks to the fact that some young community members had access to the internet that the villagers discovered in 2020 that the world was facing a pandemic. Avowed pacifists, they now ask visitors if the war is over yet in Ukraine. The community used to have around 2,000 inhabitants, but the encroachment of modern life drove half of them away to the state of Campeche in southeastern Mexico. They left because "they didn't want electricity," says village leader Johan Friesen Brown, 42. Most of those who stayed were young people, he adds. The men wear checkered shirts, denim overalls and caps. The women wear long dresses, sandals and sometimes wide-brimmed hats -- all made themselves. Jacobo Brown, who runs a village store and a cheese factory, is happy with the changes. "Now we use electricity for irrigation. It's easier. And we put tires on the tractor to work more comfortably," adds the 50-year-old, who does not yet know how to use wifi. There are estimated to be roughly 100,000 Mennonites in Mexico, mostly in Chihuahua. Although their roots are in the Netherlands and Russia, the first Mennonites that immigrated to Mexico came from Canada where they had learnt English. When they arrived a century ago, then Mexican president Alvaro Obregon "opened the door to them," says Lawrence Taylor, historian at Mexico's El Colegio de la Frontera Norte. They were allowed to have their own schools and exempted from military service, Taylor says. Agriculture was their vocation and today their attachment to the land coexists with a gradual shift to modernity, encouraged in Enns' case by the importance her family places on education. "My grandfather was very rebellious," she says. As a result, her father was the first in his community to send his children to a public school. Later, Enns went to Canada as an exchange student. The influencer began to fall in love with technology at the age of 15 when she had her first camera. Now, she manages the social media activities of two companies in Cuauhtemoc and, in addition to her TikTok account, also has 166,000 subscribers to her YouTube channel. Enns, who describes herself as a feminist, praises the Mennonites for their industriousness and sense of solidarity, and wants her popularity to motivate others. "For me, it means breaking a lot of rules. I hope I can inspire other Mennonite women to be more independent, to be strong and not be afraid to speak their minds," she says.

TikTok star from Mexico's Mennonite community shows the way

Mexico Foreign Minister Marcelo Ebrard Casaubón who is on India visit has termed the country "important partner" in the trade and space. This is the first visit of Marcelo Ebrard Casaubón to India in his capacity as Foreign Minister, during which he will also visit Mumbai with a big delegation. Speaking to our Principal Diplomatic Correspondent Sidhant Sibal, FM Ebrard said,"we have the opportunity for cooperation with India, with production and (scientific) investigation" when it comes to joint production of covid vaccines.

India is an important partner in Trade, Space says Mexico Foreign minister Ebrard

The United States and Mexico both booked tickets to this year's World Cup in Qatar in the final round of CONCACAF qualifying on Wednesday.

The United States, who missed out on the 2018 tournament, lost 2-0 to Costa Rica but still progressed along with the Mexicans, who beat El Salvador 2-0. 
Canada, who already secured qualification on Sunday, lost 1-0 at Panama but still finished top of the group.

Costa Rica finished fourth in the standings and will face New Zealand in an intercontinental qualifier in Qatar in June for another spot at the finals.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/david-beckham-and-family-left-shaken-after-burglary-at-ps40m-london-mansion-467116">David Beckham and family left ‘shaken’ after burglary at £40m London mansion</a>

On the final matchday of CONCACAF qualifying, the United States knew that a win, draw or loss by less than six goals would ensure a return to the World Cup finals.

Costa Rica went ahead in the 51st minute from a Juan Pablo Vargas header before Anthony Contreras doubled the lead from close range shortly after.

The United States, whose squad includes only four players from the side which failed to reach Russia in 2018, held steady the rest of the way to ensure qualification.

The United States and Mexico both booked tickets to this year's World Cup in Qatar in the final round of CONCACAF qualifying on Wednesday. The United States, who missed out on the 2018 tournament, lost 2-0 to Costa Rica but still progressed along with the Mexicans, who beat El Salvador 2-0.

The United States and Mexico both booked tickets to this year's World Cup in Qatar in the final round of CONCACAF qualifying on Wednesday. The United States, who missed out on the 2018 tournament, lost 2-0 to Costa Rica but still progressed along with the Mexicans, who beat El Salvador 2-0. Canada, who already secured qualification on Sunday, lost 1-0 at Panama but still finished top of the group. Costa Rica finished fourth in the standings and will face New Zealand in an intercontinental qualifier in Qatar in June for another spot at the finals. ALSO READ: David Beckham and family left ‘shaken’ after burglary at £40m London mansion On the final matchday of CONCACAF qualifying, the United States knew that a win, draw or loss by less than six goals would ensure a return to the World Cup finals. Costa Rica went ahead in the 51st minute from a Juan Pablo Vargas header before Anthony Contreras doubled the lead from close range shortly after. The United States, whose squad includes only four players from the side which failed to reach Russia in 2018, held steady the rest of the way to ensure qualification.

USA, Mexico seal spots at World Cup finals in Qatar

Eying for close cooperation in space and pharma sectors, Mexico's Foreign Minister Marcelo Ebrard Casaubón will reach India on Wednesday for a three-day India visit.

This is the first visit of Mexico's FM to India&nbsp;during which he will hold talks with External Affairs Minister Dr S Jaishankar on Wednesday evening.

A release from India's Ministry Of External Affairs said, "Two Ministers will undertake a comprehensive review of bilateral relations and will also discuss international issues of mutual interest.”

In Delhi, the FM will be meeting Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO) chief S Somanath.

ISRO and the Mexican Space Agency (AEM) signed a pact in October 2014 on ‘Space Cooperation for Peaceful Purposes’.

Three officials from AEM participated in the training on “Forest Fire Monitoring through Space Technologies” at the Indian Institute of Remote Sensing, Dehradun, in August 2019 under the pact.

Pharma and healthcare, including the joint production of vaccines, is another key issue of bilateral cooperation. Several Indian pharma companies have a presence present in the North American country.

The bilateral trade between the two countries had crossed the $10 billion mark in 2021 despite the pandemic.

Both countries are also non-permanent members of the United Nations Security Council with regular consultations between the two on various issues at the high table.

Recently, Mexico and France co-sponsored resolution at the United Nations General Assembly on the humanitarian situation in Ukraine. The resolution was adopted by the assembly.&nbsp;

Jaishankar had visited Mexico last year and participated in the commemorative event of the 200th anniversary of the consolidation of Mexican Independence. PM Modi had visited the country in 2016.

Eying for close cooperation in space and pharma sectors, Mexico's Foreign Minister Marcelo Ebrard Casaubón will reach India on Wednesday for a three-day India visit.

Eying for close cooperation in space and pharma sectors, Mexico's Foreign Minister Marcelo Ebrard Casaubón will reach India on Wednesday for a three-day India visit. This is the first visit of Mexico's FM to India during which he will hold talks with External Affairs Minister Dr S Jaishankar on Wednesday evening. A release from India's Ministry Of External Affairs said, "Two Ministers will undertake a comprehensive review of bilateral relations and will also discuss international issues of mutual interest.” In Delhi, the FM will be meeting Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO) chief S Somanath. ISRO and the Mexican Space Agency (AEM) signed a pact in October 2014 on ‘Space Cooperation for Peaceful Purposes’. Three officials from AEM participated in the training on “Forest Fire Monitoring through Space Technologies” at the Indian Institute of Remote Sensing, Dehradun, in August 2019 under the pact. Pharma and healthcare, including the joint production of vaccines, is another key issue of bilateral cooperation. Several Indian pharma companies have a presence present in the North American country. The bilateral trade between the two countries had crossed the $10 billion mark in 2021 despite the pandemic. Both countries are also non-permanent members of the United Nations Security Council with regular consultations between the two on various issues at the high table. Recently, Mexico and France co-sponsored resolution at the United Nations General Assembly on the humanitarian situation in Ukraine. The resolution was adopted by the assembly. Jaishankar had visited Mexico last year and participated in the commemorative event of the 200th anniversary of the consolidation of Mexican Independence. PM Modi had visited the country in 2016.

Space and pharma to be key focus of Mexico FM’s India visit on Wednesday

On women's day, hundreds march against gender-based violence, femicide in Mexico

At a&nbsp;police station&nbsp;in&nbsp;Mexico City, women train with riot gear in preparation for an International Women's Day march in one of the countries hardest hit by gender-based violence.

The squad of 500 officers is tasked with ensuring the demonstrations that draw thousands of women do not block roads or damage public property.

Although their work usually involves tense confrontations with fellow women, they feel united with the feminist cause because they too suffer violence and abuse by men.&nbsp;

But they question some of the protesters' methods.

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The demonstrators "hit me because they see the uniform and because of history. You see a&nbsp;police&nbsp;uniform and (think of) repression, corruption, impunity," said Itzania Otero, 35, who commands the unit preparing to&nbsp;police&nbsp;Tuesday's march.&nbsp;

She favors empathy to show the protesters "that this uniform is not what they think," and that her officers only seek to contain -- not repress -- them.

"We policewomen have also suffered a thousand things," she said.

In recent years, protests against gender-based violence have brought together thousands of women in the capital and other Mexican cities.

Mexico&nbsp;registered 1,006 femicides last year, marking an increase from 978 in 2020, according to government figures.

Recent victims include Michelle Perez Tadeo, a 29-year-old television host and model whose body was found last month in a wooded area on the outskirts of the capital.

Other gender-based crimes such as harassment, sexual abuse and domestic violence have increased in recent years, resulting in a rising number of calls to emergency lines.

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Staying calm

During the training session, instructor Tania Arrazola teaches&nbsp;the police&nbsp;how to put on their protective equipment, which includes a vest, gloves, helmet, shin guards and a shield.

She also shows them how to use the shield in cases of aggression and how not to be provoked.

But "staying calm while they attack and hit you, enduring the many times that they throw paint on your face and say many things to you, it's difficult," she admitted.

Even though the protests put them in direct confrontation, some policewomen emphasize the importance of the feminist struggle to them.

"It's a very complex issue because within our own corporation we suffer the same type of violence and also with our partners," said officer Sandra Gonzalez, 32.

The police's special gender unit is investigating hundreds of cases of alleged abuses committed against female&nbsp;police&nbsp;officers by colleagues and superiors.

At the same time, Gonzalez criticizes the use of violence by hardcore protesters, who sometimes hurl Molotov cocktails at&nbsp;the police.

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She believes there are better ways to express discontent.

The police&nbsp;squad, created in September 2020, is also tasked with implementing protection measures for women victims of violence.

Although the squad says that its role is not to oppress, some protesters accuse them of doing just that, such as when they use fire extinguishers to put out the firebombs and disperse people.

"In the end they have an advantage over us. They have a weapon and are trained to react. We don't," said an activist who plans to participate in Tuesday's march.

"There's very little training in restraint. They act like a male oppressor," said the woman, who asked not to be named.

At a police station in Mexico City, women train with riot gear in preparation for an International Women's Day march in one of the countries hardest hit by gender-based violence.

At a police station in Mexico City, women train with riot gear in preparation for an International Women's Day march in one of the countries hardest hit by gender-based violence. The squad of 500 officers is tasked with ensuring the demonstrations that draw thousands of women do not block roads or damage public property. Although their work usually involves tense confrontations with fellow women, they feel united with the feminist cause because they too suffer violence and abuse by men. But they question some of the protesters' methods. Also read | Doctors Without Borders workers kidnapped in Yemen: Report The demonstrators "hit me because they see the uniform and because of history. You see a police uniform and (think of) repression, corruption, impunity," said Itzania Otero, 35, who commands the unit preparing to police Tuesday's march. She favors empathy to show the protesters "that this uniform is not what they think," and that her officers only seek to contain -- not repress -- them. "We policewomen have also suffered a thousand things," she said. In recent years, protests against gender-based violence have brought together thousands of women in the capital and other Mexican cities. Mexico registered 1,006 femicides last year, marking an increase from 978 in 2020, according to government figures. Recent victims include Michelle Perez Tadeo, a 29-year-old television host and model whose body was found last month in a wooded area on the outskirts of the capital. Other gender-based crimes such as harassment, sexual abuse and domestic violence have increased in recent years, resulting in a rising number of calls to emergency lines. Also read | In a first, a female judge chairs a hearing in Egypt’s top court Staying calm During the training session, instructor Tania Arrazola teaches the police how to put on their protective equipment, which includes a vest, gloves, helmet, shin guards and a shield. She also shows them how to use the shield in cases of aggression and how not to be provoked. But "staying calm while they attack and hit you, enduring the many times that they throw paint on your face and say many things to you, it's difficult," she admitted. Even though the protests put them in direct confrontation, some policewomen emphasize the importance of the feminist struggle to them. "It's a very complex issue because within our own corporation we suffer the same type of violence and also with our partners," said officer Sandra Gonzalez, 32. The police's special gender unit is investigating hundreds of cases of alleged abuses committed against female police officers by colleagues and superiors. At the same time, Gonzalez criticizes the use of violence by hardcore protesters, who sometimes hurl Molotov cocktails at the police. Watch | Gravitas Plus | Ukraine War: Are we heading towards World War III She believes there are better ways to express discontent. The police squad, created in September 2020, is also tasked with implementing protection measures for women victims of violence. Although the squad says that its role is not to oppress, some protesters accuse them of doing just that, such as when they use fire extinguishers to put out the firebombs and disperse people. "In the end they have an advantage over us. They have a weapon and are trained to react. We don't," said an activist who plans to participate in Tuesday's march. "There's very little training in restraint. They act like a male oppressor," said the woman, who asked not to be named.

Mexico's women police squad on protest frontline

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