Mexico's foreign ministry said on the 30th the Mexico‑U.S. border cannot be
changed by a decision of a U.S. state. Responding to Texas officials' claim that
nine islands in the border river belong to Texas, the ministry said U.S. state
governments have no authority to make such determinations. It said the
International Boundary and Water Commission, the binational body authorized to
implement the 1970 Mexico‑U.S. boundary treaty, has the authority to determine
each island's border status, and the treaty bars either party from constructing
works the commission finds could alter or impede the river's normal flow. Mexico
said it will closely monitor actions in the area, adhere to the treaty and
pursue bilateral dialogue through established mechanisms.
