Mexico's First Female President Leads Historic Independence Day Celebrations

MEXICO CELEBRATES HISTORIC INDEPENDENCE DAY WITH FIRST FEMALE PRESIDENT AT HELM Mexico City - President Claudia Sheinbaum made history on Tuesday, becoming the first woman to lead Mexico's Independence Day celebrations in 215 years. The event was marked by a resolute message against foreign intervention, amid ongoing diplomatic pressure from the United States. Sheinbaum presided over the traditional grito ceremony at the National Palace balcony in Mexico City, ringing the bell that symbolizes the call to arms during Mexico's 1810-21 independence struggle against Spain. The ceremony was attended by her cabinet and thousands of soldiers. "No foreign power makes decisions for us," Sheinbaum declared firmly during Tuesday's military parade. "Speaking before her cabinet and thousands of soldiers, she emphasized that no interference is possible in our homeland." While she named no specific nation, her statement comes as the US government increases pressure on Mexico to combat drug trafficking and migration. The Independence Day celebrations are a significant event in Mexican culture, commemorating the country's struggle for independence from Spain. The grito ceremony has been performed the evening before September 16 for over a century. Sheinbaum's message was seen by many as a response to the US government's recent pressure on Mexico to take action against drug cartels and human trafficking. "The president's statement is a clear indication that Mexico will not be dictated to by any foreign power," said Dr. Maria Rodriguez, a political analyst at the University of Mexico. However, some critics argue that Sheinbaum's message was too vague and did not provide concrete solutions to address the country's security issues. "While we appreciate the president's commitment to national sovereignty, we need more specific actions to tackle the root causes of our problems," said Senator Juan Hernandez, a member of the opposition party. The celebrations will continue on Wednesday with traditional parades and cultural events across the country. Sheinbaum is expected to address the nation again, providing further details on her administration's plans to address the country's security challenges. In Pictures: People demonstrate during Mexico's Independence Day celebration at the Zocalo square in Mexico City. (Yuri Cortez/AFP) Background: Mexico gained independence from Spain on September 16, 1810, after a long and bloody struggle led by Miguel Hidalgo y Costilla. The country has since celebrated its independence with parades, cultural events, and traditional ceremonies. Context: The US government has been increasing pressure on Mexico to take action against drug cartels and human trafficking, which have become major concerns for both countries. Sheinbaum's message was seen as a response to these efforts, emphasizing Mexico's commitment to national sovereignty. Additional Perspectives: Dr. Maria Rodriguez, political analyst at the University of Mexico: "The president's statement is a clear indication that Mexico will not be dictated to by any foreign power." Senator Juan Hernandez, opposition party member: "While we appreciate the president's commitment to national sovereignty, we need more specific actions to tackle the root causes of our problems." Current Status: Sheinbaum's message was seen as a significant development in Mexico's diplomatic relations with the US. The celebrations will continue on Wednesday with traditional parades and cultural events across the country. Next Developments: The president is expected to address the nation again, providing further details on her administration's plans to address the country's security challenges. *Reporting by Aljazeera.*