The session titled “Water deliveries from Mexico to the US: The 1944 Treaty and Conciliation Points” brought together leading experts to reflect on the current tensions and diplomatic challenges surrounding Water Deliveries from Mexico under the historic 1944 Treaty. Moderated by Rosario Sanchez and Gabriel Eckstein, the conversation offered in-depth analysis from Luzma Fabiola Nava, Samuel Sandoval Solís, Mario López, and Carlos Rubinstein.
Dr. Luzma Nava emphasized that “the current situation… reflects how these countries have been managing an issue related to a set of complex changes—climate, hydrology, demographics, economic, agricultural production and politics.” Her call was clear: “An enormous generation of political will is needed along with a sustained dialogue.”
Addressing the practical dimensions, Dr. Sandoval Solís warned: “If we just consider mother nature… it’s not going to help for Mexico to deliver the water to the United States.” He stressed that water diplomacy must go beyond nature’s cycles and address institutional planning and stakeholder trust.
For his part, Carlos Rubinstein was blunt: “The more things change, the more they stay the same.” He pointed out that Water Deliveries from Mexico are “not necessarily treated as a priority” in national water allocations, leading to predictable conflicts and unmet commitments.
Mario López Pérez added a sobering note: “There is a great concern… about the high probability of non-compliance in the water deliveries unless mother nature saves Mexico.” He underlined a deep frustration due to missed opportunities and the erosion of binational trust: “We need to restore trust among the basin councils, the Mexican users and with the US.”
The panel concluded with a strong consensus: the treaty remains valid, but the mechanisms for fulfilling Water Deliveries from Mexico must evolve through cooperation, communication, and flexibility. As Rosario Sanchez noted, “This is not the last word—just the beginning of a series of coffee break dialogues we all need.”