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Dominican Republic–Mexico relations refers to the diplomatic relations between the Dominican Republic and Mexico. Both nations have over the years joined several multilateral forums and are members of the Association of Caribbean States, Community of Latin American and Caribbean States, Organization of American States, Organization of Ibero-American States and the United Nations.
Contents
History
The Dominican Republic and Mexico are two Latin American nations that were once colonized by the Spanish empire. After both nations gained independence from Spain; diplomatic relations between the Dominican Republic and Mexico were established on 23 July 1888. In March 1890, a treaty of 'Friendship, Navigation and Commerce' was signed between both nations. In 1929, resident diplomatic missions were established in each other's capitals, respectively.
Initial diplomatic relations between the two nations were unsteady due to several coup d'état, civil wars and foreign interventions; occurring in the Dominican Republic. From 1930-1938 and again in 1942 until his death in 1961; the Dominican Republic was ruled by President Rafael Trujillo. During this time period, relations between the two nations were cold at best. Mexico granted political asylum to several Dominican politicians and leading figures who were escaping persecuting in their country. After the death of Trujillo in 1961, relations improved between the two nations.
In April 1965, the United States government under President Lyndon B. Johnson feared that the Dominican Republic would turn into a 'second Cuba' after the assassination of Trujillo and sent in the marines to occupy the country. Mexico vehemently condemned American occupation of the country and Mexico did not participate in the OAS contingency force to oversee events in the country. Soon after the election of President Joaquín Balaguer, American marines pulled out of the country in July 1966 and diplomatic relations between Mexico and the Dominican Republic returned to normal.
State visits
Presidential visits from the Dominican Republic to Mexico
Presidential visits from Mexico to the Dominican Republic
Trade relations
In 2014, two-way trade between both nations amounted to $1.4 billion USD. The Dominican Republic is Mexico's 37th biggest trading partner globally while Mexico is the Dominican's Republic fourth biggest trading partner. Mexico's main exports to the Caribbean nation are petroleum and steel. The Dominican Republic's main exports to Mexico are electronic cutting devices and machinery. Mexican companies in the Dominican Republic have invested more than $6.7 billion USD. Several multi-national Mexican companies operate in the country such as: América Móvil, Cemex, Jumex and Sigma Alimentos. Dominican companies have invested over $3.6 million USD in Mexico.