Mexico city: Mexican President Claudia Sheinbaum on Thursday strongly opposed the constant "criminalization" of undocumented migrants in the United States. "The criminalization of migrants is not only an act of inhumanity, but also creates problems," Sheinbaum said, responding to U.S. President Donald Trump's hardline remarks toward migrants in a prime-time national address Wednesday night.

According to Namibia Press Agency, Sheinbaum emphasized that the key to reducing immigration lies in investing in countries to help and protect people, thus preventing poverty and inequality. She clarified that migration is not a choice for many, but a necessity driven by adverse conditions in their home countries. Sheinbaum made these remarks during a press conference held on International Migrants Day, reiterating her government's stance against actions that criminalize migrants.

Sheinbaum also addressed misconceptions about the U.S.-Mexico border, rejecting portrayals of it as one of the world's most dangerous regions. She described it instead as one of the busiest, with millions of vehicles crossing daily for work, education, and health-related reasons.