Mexican President names new minister of foreign affairs

Mexican President Enrique Pena Nieto, on Wednesday named former Economy Minister, Luis Videgaray Caso, as his new Minister of Foreign Affairs, replacing Claudia Ruiz Massieu.

In a press conference from his official residence, the president said the new minister would seek to speed up contacts and dialogue with the new U.S. government to lay the groundwork for a solid working relationship.

Videgaray resigned as Economy Minister in September after taking the blame for organizing a visit by Donald Trump to Mexico, which was roundly criticized across the political spectrum.

"Before the change in U.S. government on Jan. 20, the instructions for Videgaray are to accelerate dialogue and contacts," said the president.

Equally, the new minister will "promote the interests of Mexico and the dignity of Mexicans. He will have to ensure the attention and protection to which Mexicans living abroad have a right, including many in the U.S.".

Pena Nieto also thanked Ruiz Massieu for her work, addressing her to say "Claudia, many thanks for your friendship, your loyalty, your commitment to Mexico and the delivery of your work."

Pena Nieto also named the director of the National Institute of Fine Arts (INBA), María Cristina García Cepeda, as Minister of Culture, to replace Rafael Tovary de Teresa, who recently passed away.

source: Xinhua