Mexican President Felipe Calderón stated that during his official visit to the United States next week, he will personally protest against the immigration law recently signed by the government of Arizona.
Arizona borders Mexico, and the state's governor signed a bill on April 23 to combat illegal immigration, allowing police to question individuals suspected of being illegal immigrants to check whether they possess legal documents such as a U.S. green card, foreign passport, or state driver's license. This bill will take effect in several months.
It is reported that there are approximately 10.8 million illegal immigrants in the United States, most of whom come from Latin American countries, while 80% of Mexico's labor exports go to the United States, with millions working in the U.S., including both legal and illegal immigrants. Therefore, Mexican authorities condemn the immigration law signed by Arizona and remind Mexicans living or traveling in the state to be cautious, requesting protection from the Mexican consulate in Arizona.
Calderón stated that this immigration law has affected the bilateral relations between the two countries. Therefore, he will protest in person during his meeting with Obama next week and will raise objections to the U.S. Congress.