Mexican President Claudia Sheinbaum has denied claims that Mexican consulates in the United States are interfering in local politics and should come under scrutiny. She stressed that just like the US consulate in Mexico or those of other countries, the Mexican consulate’s role is solely to protect its citizens.

Her remarks followed a report broadcast by a News channel that the US State Department is looking to investigate Mexican consulates, and possibly even close some of them, following the deaths of two American CIA officers after a counter-narcotics operation in northern Mexico last month.

She said that Mexico’s government has not received any official notification of a supposed review or possible closure of consulates.

She added that Mexico’s more than 50 consulates in the United States provide assistance and protection to Mexican citizens abroad, in keeping with international law and standard diplomatic practices. She added that they are very respectful of US policy.