Agreements on security, infrastructure and economic development to combat the “structural causes” of irregular migration were signed on Friday the presidents of Mexico, Andrés Manuel López Obrador, and of Guatemala, Bernardo Arevalo.

The two center-left presidents met on the Mexican side of the border in Tapachula, an area through which hundreds of thousands of people pass each year on their way to the US.

The so-called migrant caravans to the north often depart from Tapatsula.

“I wish they would understand how we want to live, agree and help us more,” wished Jean-Paul Ramos, who hopes to continue his journey to the north, speaking to AFP.

Repeating the passe-partout phrase often expressed by Mexico in talks with the US, the final statement issued after the meeting speaks of combating the “structural causes of immigration”. Mexico and Guatemala simultaneously assured that they want to promote “legal, safe, coordinated and circular” migration.

The two presidents agreed to strengthen bilateral cooperation regarding “security”, “rail connections” and “mobility” of their citizens.

They also agreed to implement “joint” and “immediate” measures to fight cross-border drug trafficking.