Earl Anthony Wayne

Earl Anthony Wayne

Earl Anthony Wayne is currently teaching as a Distinguished Diplomat in Residence at American University's School of International Service.  He is a Public Policy Fellow at the Woodrow Wilson Center for International Scholars and Co-Chair of the Advisory Board of its Mexico Institute.  Wayne is a former Assistant Secretary of State for Economic and Business Affairs, a former U.S. ambassador to Mexico and to Argentina and a former Deputy Ambassador in Afghanistan.  He left the U.S. diplomatic corps with the rank of Career Ambassador.  Wayne is also a Senior Non-Resident Adviser at the Center for Strategic and International Studies and at the Atlantic Council.  He speaks, writes and consults on a range of international and management topics.

2020 Articles

Foreign Policy •

Hundreds of Former National Security Officials Condemn Trump’s Response to Protests

Hundreds of Former National Security Officials Condemn Trump’s Response to Protests More than 280 former senior U.S. diplomats and military leaders rebuked President Donald Trump over his plans to use U.S. military units to control protests across the country in a letter shared with Foreign Policy on Friday. The participants joined a chorus of high-ranking current and former officials who already have condemned the commander in chief after police forcibly cleared protesters near the White Hous
TheHill •

Better coordination is key to reenergizing US-Mexico trade

Mexico and the United States are striving to reopen their integrated supply chains while grappling with the COVID-19 pandemic. Mexico is the United States’s biggest trading partner and the U.S. buys about 80 percent of Mexico’s imports. The two countries, along with Canada, also plan to launch the new North American trade agreement — USMCA — on July 1. That could help the continent’s economies rebound from the pandemic. To maximize the impact on jobs and prosperity, however, USMCA’s launch and
Pulse News Mexico •

How to Make a Bad Situation Worse in Afghanistan

This article, written by five former U.S. ambassadors, including Earl Anthony Wayne, who served as the U.S. envoy to Mexico from 2011 to 2015, was previously published on the Atlantic Council website. It is being republished on Pulse News Mexico with express prior permission. Recent news reports suggest that U.S. President Donald J. Trump is seriously considering withdrawing U.S. troops from Afghanistan because of concerns related to the novel coronavirus (covid-19). There are arguments for the
Pulse News Mexico •

In Search of a Return to Normalcy in U.S.-Mexican Trade

On Wednesday, April 29, former U.S. Ambassador to Mexico Earl Anthony Wayne delivered a brief speech on Mexico’s projected economic recovery during a web conference organized by the Mexican Employers Confederation (Coparmex) and the Business Coordinating Council (CCE). This is the transcript of that speech; From my perspective in Washington, there are two big clusters of issues to address as part of the strengthening of our bilateral economic relationship as we emerge from the covid-19 pandemic
Atlantic Council •

How to make a bad situation much worse: Run from Afghanistan because of the virus

Recent news reports suggest that US President Donald J. Trump is seriously considering withdrawing US troops from Afghanistan because of concerns relating to the novel coronavirus (COVID-19). There are arguments for the United States to stay and to go, but this is a bad one on every count. Our troops will be exposed to COVID-19 wherever they are. In Afghanistan, our military presence is key to the strategy the Trump administration has been laboring to implement to foment peace. The United State
TheHill •

Don't neglect preparing our workers for a post-pandemic economy

As the Trump administration, Congress and governors across the country scramble to manage the coronavirus pandemic and meet urgent needs, it is important to prepare what will be needed to restart the economy. The list of “must dos” for restarting should include steps to make the United States more competitive as it re-emerges from this crisis, as former Treasury Secretary Hank Paulson insightfully argues. Prioritizing and funding programs to upgrade the skills of our workers for an inclusive pos
Modern American Diplomacy, Apple Podcasts •

‎Modern American Diplomacy: Amb. Tony Wayne discusses Argentina, Mexico, Afghanistan, economics, and raising a family in the Foreign Service on

Ambassador Tony Wayne discusses economic crisis in Argentina, interviewing KISS in Buenos Aires, the illegal drug trade in Mexico, health and education in Afghanistan, and raising a family in the Foreign Service. Interview excerpted from the forthcoming book: Modern American Diplomacy: A Field Guide to Success in The Foreign Service.
Pulse News Mexico •

Getting Afghanistan to Peace Will Require Persistent U.S. Engagement

With the Feb. 29 signing of a U.S.-Taliban agreement, the road to peace in Afghanistan looks more promising than at any time in the last 15 years. And as it should be, the Afghans on both sides should soon be the key drivers crafting a final and durable peace settlement. Nevertheless, despite the unprecedented breakthrough achieved in the U.S.-Taliban talks, ensuring a real peace in Afghanistan that protects U.S. and allied security interests will require persistent U.S. diplomacy, sustained on
CSIS •

Getting Afghanistan to Peace Will Require Persistent U.S. Engagement

Getting Afghanistan to Peace Will Require Persistent U.S. Engagement With the February 29 signing of a U.S.-Taliban agreement, the road to peace in Afghanistan looks more promising than at any time in the last 15 years. And as it should be, the Afghans on both sides should soon be the key drivers crafting a final and durable peace settlement. Nevertheless, despite the unprecedented breakthrough achieved in the U.S.-Taliban talks, ensuring a real peace in Afghanistan that protects U.S. ...
Pulse News Mexico •

The Urgent Need to Bolster U.S.-Mexico Security Cooperation

Cross-border criminal organizations are doing great harm to the United States and Mexico. The facts on the ground regarding smuggling of drugs, arms and money demand quick, effective action to strengthen coordinated U.S.-Mexico work against these transnational criminal organizations (TCOs). TCOs cross-border illicit networks operate widely in both countries, undermining the sovereignty of both. Effectively countering TCOs continues to be difficult. Recall that the United States declared the war
TheHill •

The urgent need to bolster US-Mexico security cooperation

Cross-border criminal organizations are doing great harm to the United States and Mexico. The facts on the ground regarding smuggling of drugs, arms and money demand quick, effective action to strengthen coordinated U.S.-Mexico work against these transnational criminal organizations (TCOs). Recent visits to Mexico by U.S. Attorney General William Barr William Pelham BarrThe urgent need to bolster US-Mexico security cooperation Trump to ask for M to fight human trafficking, help victims: report
American Diplomat •

Perils of the Press, in Mexico-US Relations

Why is public diplomacy especially important in Mexico? Mi casa es su casa, or put another way, we have 35 million US citizens of Mexican heritage, a 2000 mile border, 1 million people going in both directions over the border every day, and billions of dollars in trade annually. So you'd better get it right. And what about all those tweets? Tony Wayne illuminates, and offers the best music Laura thinks we've ever had on the show!

2020 - Interviews, Speeches, Talks, Presentations, Testimonies, Media mentions, etc.

Foreign Policy •

Hundreds of Former National Security Officials Condemn Trump’s Response to Protests

Hundreds of Former National Security Officials Condemn Trump’s Response to Protests More than 280 former senior U.S. diplomats and military leaders rebuked President Donald Trump over his plans to use U.S. military units to control protests across the country in a letter shared with Foreign Policy on Friday. The participants joined a chorus of high-ranking current and former officials who already have condemned the commander in chief after police forcibly cleared protesters near the White Hous
Just Security •

The Strength of America’s Apolitical Military: A Statement by Former U.S. Ambassadors, Military Officers, and Senior Officials

Retired members of the U.S. diplomatic corps, many of whom had seen first-hand in non-democratic countries the use of the military as a tool to suppress public protest, were alarmed this week at what seemed steps in that direction on the streets of Washington. The following letter expresses their concern at such measures and their support for the U.S. military’s proud tradition of staying outside of politics. It is addressed to national, state, and local leaders, and has been endorsed by more than 300 former officials ...
American University •

SIS Students Conduct Research for the State Department

In 2019, SIS began partnering with the US Department of State on its Diplomacy Lab initiative, which allows students—under the guidance of faculty—at participating universities to conduct research on foreign policy challenges for the Department. In spring 2020, Distinguished Diplomat in Residence Ambassador Earl Anthony Wayne oversaw two Diplomacy Labs: one investigating anti-gang initiatives in the US for the Bureau of International Narcotics and Law Enforcement Affairs (INL) and another focus
El Universal •

México debe aprovechar enfrentamiento EU-China: Salazar Lomelín

México está frente a la oportunidad de sumarse más a las cadenas de valor de América del Norte, aprovechando que Estados Unidos y China mantienen un enfrentamiento comercial, para ello hay que aumentar el contenido nacional, promover al país en el extranjero y tener mayor coordinación y comunicación para aprovechar el tratado comercial que tiene con EU y Canadá. El tema se discutió durante la videoconferencia Covid-19: Interdependencia y Cooperación México-Estados Unidos del Centro para estudio
Modern American Diplomacy, Apple Podcasts •

‎Modern American Diplomacy: Amb. Tony Wayne discusses Argentina, Mexico, Afghanistan, economics, and raising a family in the Foreign Service on

Ambassador Tony Wayne discusses economic crisis in Argentina, interviewing KISS in Buenos Aires, the illegal drug trade in Mexico, health and education in Afghanistan, and raising a family in the Foreign Service. Interview excerpted from the forthcoming book: Modern American Diplomacy: A Field Guide to Success in The Foreign Service.
TWENTY-FIVE YEAR APPRENTICESHIP •

LEADERS — 25 Year Apprenticeship

LETTER OF SUPPORT FROM DIPLOMATIC LEADERS AND LEGENDS In support of the 25YearApprenticeship (25YA) blog, we, the undersigned, offer our guidance to all current diplomats, civil and foreign service. We succeeded as diplomats in large part due to the mentorship we received from those in leadership positions who were determined to make a difference. We support the apolitical and inclusive nature of the blog and laud all who seek to serve the United States more effectively, persuasively and active
TheHill •

More than 100 national security professionals urge Trump to invoke Defense Production Act

More than 100 current and former national security professionals, including former Defense Secretary Chuck Hagel Charles (Chuck) Timothy HagelMore than 100 national security professionals urge Trump to invoke Defense Production Act Almost 100 former officials, members of Congress urge Senate action on election security GOP Senate candidate said Republicans have 'dual loyalties' to Israel MORE, urged President Trump Donald John TrumpNorth Korea asking for aid, while denying any coronavirus cases:
Load More Articles

2019 Articles

Pulse News Mexico •

USMCA: Approval and Economic Boost in Sight

A big push is under way to achieve approval in the U.S. House of Representatives for the newly amended United States-Mexico-Canada Agreement (USMCA), the new NAFTA, before the end of the year. The deadline goal appears to be congressional action by Dec. 20, at the latest. Supporters of USMCA are working hard to complete the procedures needed for action by in the U.S. House of Representatives and to secure as many votes as possible there for the agreement, so the USMCA heads to the U.S. Senate w
Woodrow Wilson Center •

North America 2.0: A Workforce Development Agenda

A new report examining the need for the United States, Mexico and Canada to collaborate on workforce development in order to better meet the massive challenges of new technologies transforming work and workplaces over the next few years. governments, the private sector, educational institutions need to find and implement new models of skills training and preparing for the changes brought by new technology or face serious social, political and economic disruptions.
TheHill •

USMCA: So near, or just too far?

A big push is under way to achieve U.S. approval for the U.S.-Mexico-Canada Agreement (USMCA), the new NAFTA, but important gaps remain between the parties. The most recent deadline goal appears to be congressional action by Dec. 20, at the latest. Missing that deadline could delay approval until 2021 and leave the continent’s economies under a cloud of uncertainty. Approving the USMCA could bring a needed economic boost to the millions of jobs supported by commerce with America’s two largest t
Pulse News Mexico •

A Fresh Approach to Peace in Afghanistan

An effective peace process is possible and desirable in Afghanistan. Success, however, will require a careful, step-by-step course to test bona fides, build confidence, reduce violence and encourage the difficult negotiations in which Afghans themselves determine the political future of Afghanistan. U.S. Special Representative Zalmay Khalilzad has been working to re-engage the peace process in visits to the region, in meetings with international players, and in fostering last month’s detainee s
TheHill •

A fresh approach to peace in Afghanistan

An effective peace process is possible and desirable in Afghanistan. Success, however, will require a careful, step-by-step course to test bona fides, build confidence, reduce violence and encourage the difficult negotiations in which Afghans themselves determine the political future of Afghanistan. U.S. Special Representative Zalmay Khalilzad has been working to re-engage the peace process in visits to the region, in meetings with international players, and in fostering the just completed deta
Urban Institute •

Apprenticeship and Other Work-Based Learning Programs in North America

The apprenticeship movement is reshaping skills, policies, and programs in the United States at a critical moment in our country’s history. I was happy to be leader author in the first article in this reader. The collection offers a chorus of voices emanating from different countries and populations, echoing commitment to bright, sustainable workforce futures through a well-crafted approach to this talent development model. The collected chapters and vignettes address questions for businesses of all sizes, community-based organizations, and schools looking for a way
Pulse News Mexico •

More Effective US-Mexico Cooperation Is Urgently Needed

An abbreviated version of the following article first appeared in Fox News Opinion and is being republished in Pulse News Mexico with specific prior permission. The horrific Nov. 4 killing of U.S. citizen women and children in Sonora, Mexico, should prompt closer and more effective U.S.-Mexico cooperation against the cross-border organized crime that is seriously endangering citizens of both countries. These transnational criminal groups are undermining the sovereignty of both countries daily.
Pulse News Mexico •

Democrats’ Clash with Trump Must Not Imperil USMCA Passage

It is increasingly urgent that the United States achieve stability and predictability with its two largest trading partners. The International Monetary Fund (IMF) warns of a “synchronized global slowdown” powered significantly by trade tensions, and the Institute of International Finance flags 20-year highs in global trade and economic uncertainty. “Getting to Yes” on the United States-Mexico-Canada Agreement (USMCA) this year would diminish these threats in North America. Mexico and Canada ar
TheHill •

Democrats' clashes with Trump must not imperil trade with Mexico and Canada

It is increasingly urgent that the United States achieve stability and predictability with its two largest trading partners. The International Monetary Fund (IMF) warns of a “synchronized global slowdown” powered significantly by trade tensions, and the Institute of International Finance flags 20-year highs in global trade and economic uncertainty. “Getting to Yes” on the United States-Mexico-Canada Agreement (USMCA) this year would diminish these threats in North America. Mexico and Canada ar
Pulse News Mexico •

Afghanistan: Where Do We Go from Here?

The following article first appeared in the U.S. political website “The Hill” and is being republished in Pulse News Mexico with specific prior permission. It is in the strong interest of Afghanistan, its neighbors, its international partners and especially, the United States, that the Afghanistan peace process not be abandoned, despite U.S. President Donald Trump’s declaring the U.S.-Taliban talks “dead.” No party can win a military victory any time soon in current circumstances, and Afghans
Pulse News Mexico •

Mexico Seeking Stronger Ties with US

Because of the current U.S. trade dispute with China, Mexico has become United States’ Number 1 trade partner. Mexico’s Secretary of Foreign Relations (SRE) Marcelo Ebrard met in Washington, D.C. with U.S. officials on Tuesday, Sept. 10, in an effort to put U.S.-Mexico cooperation on firmer footing, and especially to overcome U.S. threats tied to migration and move ahead with the new United States-Mexico-Canada Trade Agreement (USMCA). Mexico’s President Andrés Manuel López Obrador (AMLO) has b
TheHill •

Mexico, the leading US trade partner, seeks to fortify relations

Because of the U.S. trade dispute with China, Mexico has become America’s No. 1 trading partner. Mexico’s foreign minister is scheduled to be in Washington for meetings Tuesday, in an effort to put U.S.-Mexico cooperation on firmer footing, especially to overcome U.S. threats tied to migration and to move ahead with the new U.S.-Mexico-Canada trade agreement (USMCA). Mexico’s President Andres Manuel Lopez Obrador, known as “AMLO,” has been laboring to bring about what he views as a historic transformation in Mexico ...
Pulse News Mexico •

US-Taliban Negotiations: How to Avoid a Rush to Failure

We strongly support a negotiated peace in Afghanistan, a limited force drawdown as part of getting peace negotiations going, and the substantial force drawdown later that peace would allow. Equally strongly, we believe that U.S. security and values, including support for women, require that a full troop withdrawal can come only after a real peace. How our troop presence is managed will have a critical influence on the chances for successful peace negotiations, the future of the fight against th
Atlantic Council •

US-Taliban Negotiations: How to Avoid Rushing to Failure

This is a collaborative product of former US diplomatic officials who have worked on Afghanistan. We strongly support a negotiated peace in Afghanistan, a limited force drawdown as part of getting peace negotiations going, and the substantial force drawdown later that peace would allow. Equally strongly, we believe that US security and values, including support for women, require that a full troop withdrawal come only after a real peace. How our troop presence is managed will have a critical
Pulse News Mexico •

Border Security and Counter-Narcotics

(The following article first appeared in the Woodrow Wilson Center’s web site and is being republished in Pulse News Mexico with specific prior permission. Cross-border criminal activity fueled by illegal drugs is causing great damage in both Mexico and the United States. The two governments need to prioritize forging an agreed strategy and action agenda to tackle this serious problem. They should establish a permanent cabinet-level group to oversee bilateral counter-narcotics and cross-border
Pulse News Mexico •

Is Peace Actually on the Horizon in Afghanistan?

The momentum for peace in Afghanistan is growing. The progress over the last year is far more than many “Afghan hands” have imagined. At present, U.S.-Taliban talks are apparently making progress on addressing U.S. counterterrorism concerns and on U.S. military withdrawal plans and timetables. Though the Taliban have so far refused to negotiate with the Afghan government, a well-publicized informal meeting in Doha, Qatar, between Taliban members and representatives from Kabul — including women
CSIS •

Is Peace Actually on the Horizon in Afghanistan?

Is Peace Actually on the Horizon in Afghanistan? The momentum for peace in Afghanistan is growing. The progress over the last year is far more than many “Afghan hands” imagined. At present, U.S.-Taliban talks are apparently making progress on addressing U.S. counterterrorism concerns and on U.S. military withdrawal plans and timetables. Though the Taliban have so far refused to negotiate with the Afghan government, a well-publicized informal meeting in Doha, Qatar between Taliban members and r
Load More Articles

2019 - Interviews, Talks, Speeches, Presentations

Brookings •

AMLO’s first year: Mexico’s political, economic, and security trends

Mexican President Andrés Manuel López Obrador (AMLO) assumed office in December 2018, promising to bring a fourth revolution to Mexico and to reduce Mexico’s inequality, corruption, and violent crime. Yet a year into his administration, homicides and violent criminality in Mexico have not diminished. While the new government has undertaken new security initiatives and adopted new anti-crime priorities, the brazenness of organized crime has increased. Despite anti-corruption efforts, the country’
Vice •

Trump's Plan to Label Mexican Drug Cartels as Terrorists Could Backfire in a Big Way

This article originally appeared on VICE US. Within a matter of two months, the Jalisco New Generation Cartel brazenly killed 13 Mexican police officers; the Sinaloa cartel took an entire city hostage after the arrest of one of its leaders; and nine U.S.-citizen women and children were massacred in northern Mexico. Soon after, President Donald Trump proposed a solution: designate the cartels as terrorist organizations. The idea of designating Mexican cartels as terrorist organizations may not
American Ambassadors Live! •

Argentina's elections and its divided Congress with Ambassador Earl Anthony Wayne

(Part two of a two-part interview) Ambassador Earl Anthony Wayne joins American Ambassadors Live! Podcast host Ambassador G. Philip Hughes for a discussion surrounding Argentina's recent election results, it's divided Congress, and it's economic standing. Ambassador Wayne served as U.S. Ambassador to Mexico and Argentina. This podcast was recorded on November 8, 2019.
American Ambassadors Live! •

Cartel violence, AMLO and USMCA with Ambassador Earl Anthony Wayne (Part One)

(Part one of a two-part interview)Ambassador Earl Anthony Wayne joins American Ambassadors Live! Podcast host Ambassador G. Philip Hughes in a discussion surrounding recent episodes of cartel violence in Mexico, the USMCA deal, and the development of U.S.-Mexico relations and policy from President Felipe Calderon to Mexico's current president, Andres Manuel Lopez Obrador (AMLO). Ambassador Wayne served as U.S. Ambassador to both Mexico and Argentina.
CSIS •

A Conversation with Afghanistan First Lady Rula Ghani

An armchair discussion with the First Lady of Afghanistan Rula Ghani. The conversation will focus on the progress of women and their role in the peace process in Afghanistan. Women have made great economic and social strides in the past 15 years. More than 3.6 million girls are in school and women are now allowed to work, both of which are essential to peace and stability in Afghanistan. However, the work is not over.
Axios •

1 big thing: Cartel violence plagues Mexico

President Andrés Manuel López Obrador declared an end to Mexico’s war on the drug cartels when he took office nearly a year ago, but the gangs are only growing more aggressive. Driving the news: Nine dual U.S-Mexican citizens — six children and three women — from a Mormon community were slaughtered on Tuesday near the U.S.-Mexico border. • That massacre comes three weeks after the Sinaloa cartel violently took control of Culiacán, holding the city of 800,000 hostage until authorities agreed to
Load More Articles

2018 Articles

TheHill •

US, Mexico defy expectations by cooperating on immigration

Mexico and the United States are defying expectations by identifying ways to cooperate on the contentious issues surrounding migration. Since Mexico’s new president, Andres Manuel Lopez Obrador (AMLO), took office on Dec. 1, U.S. and Mexican officials have hammered out a dual-track approach to tackling the flow and management of migrants heading northward from Central America to Mexico and the United States. One track is a cooperative multi-year strategy designed to help keep potential migrant
Pulse News Mexico •

Narcos: Transnational Cartels and Border Security

Former U.S. ambassador to Mexico and Argentina, and public policy fellow at the Woodrow Wilson International Center in Washington, D.C. Cooperation between Mexico and the United States regarding transnational crime is vital for the wellbeing of both countries. Both societies pay a high price for the illegal traffic in drugs, money, guns and people that cross our common border. The effective and efficient operation of the border itself is vital for the $1 million a minute of commerce between the
Pulse News Mexico •

The Time to Build Lasting Bonds Between the US and Mexico is Now

Former U.S. ambassador to Mexico and Argentina, and public policy fellow at the Woodrow Wilson International Center in Washington, D.C. The moment is ripe for the United States to double down on efforts to build a stronger relationship with Mexico for the longer term. Serious short-term problems need to be managed in a way that solidifies cooperation for the years ahead. On Saturday, Dec. 1, Mexico’s new president, Andrés Manuel López Obrador (AMLO), took office for a six-year term. He also no
TheHill •

The time to build lasting bonds between US and Mexico is now

The moment is ripe for the United States to double down on efforts to build a stronger relationship with Mexico for the longer term. Serious short-term problems need to be managed in a way that solidifies cooperation for the years ahead. On Saturday, Mexico’s new President Andres Manuel Lopez Obrador (AMLO), takes office for six years. He will also control both chambers of Mexico’s Congress. AMLO wants to focus on the “transformation” of Mexico, and major domestic reforms are the top priorities

Afghanistan: Praiseworthy Economic Reforms, But Path to Peace Offers the Big Dividend

International donors will convene in Geneva in late November to discuss the social and economic progress made in Afghanistan since the Brussels Donor Conference in 2016. The economic advances made by the Afghan government give donors reasons to be pleased about the results from their pledge to provide $15 billion in assistance through 2020, conditional on the government making progress on the reform program agreed upon in Brussels. In Geneva, donors should praise the reforms made while making cl
Pulse News Mexico •

US Spotlight Fixed Squarely on AMLO as He Prepares to Take Reins in Mexico

Former U.S. ambassador to Mexico and Argentina, and public policy fellow at the Woodrow Wilson International Center in Washington, D.C. On Dec. 1, Andres Manuel Lopez Obrador (AMLO) will be sworn in as Mexico’s president. AMLO’s presidency will have important ramifications for the United States. Through trade, travel, heritage and history, U.S.-Mexico relations touch the daily lives of more American citizens than ties with any other country. The two countries trade over $1 million a minute, ha
The National Interest •

Afghanistan Is Making Economic Progress but Needs Peace

International donors will have some good news when they gather to review Afghanistan’s economic progress on November 27–28 in Geneva. While peace prospects , Taliban attacks , and Afghanistan’s unsettled politics will be on everyone’s mind, donors can applaud positive reviews of Afghan performance from the World Bank and the International Monetary Fund (IMF) as welcome steps. Afghanistan’s partners should still make clear, however, that continued aid depends on continued reform. Donor governmen
Pulse News Mexico •

Central American Caravan Crisis Is a Chance to Forge a Better US Immigration Policy

Former U.S. ambassador to Mexico and Argentina, and public policy fellow at the Woodrow Wilson International Center in Washington, D.C. U.S. President Donald Trump’s demands for neighboring governments to stop the most recent migrant caravan heading to the United States from Central America highlight the pressing need for a regionwide strategy to deal with migration flows. With the current caravan, the government of Mexico is caught between the forceful U.S. requests for action and portions of
TheHill •

US spotlight fixed squarely on AMLO as he takes reins in Mexico

On Dec. 1, Andres Manuel Lopez Obrador (AMLO) will be sworn in as Mexico’s president. AMLO’s presidency will have important ramifications for the United States. Through trade, travel, heritage and history, U.S.-Mexico relations touch the daily lives of more American citizens than ties with any other country. The two countries trade over $1 million a minute, have over $100 billion in mutual investment and share a million border crossings a day. AMLO promises a historic “transformation,” with wi
TheHill •

Caravan 'crisis' a chance to forge better immigration policy

President Trump Donald John TrumpTrump to fundraise for 3 Republicans running for open seats: report Trump to nominate former Monsanto exec to top Interior position White House aides hadn’t heard of Trump's new tax cut: report MORE’s demands for neighboring governments to stop the most recent migrant caravan heading to the U.S. from Central America highlight the pressing need for a region-wide strategy to deal with migration flows. With the current caravan, the government of Mexico is caught be
Pulse News Mexico •

If Approved, the New NAFTA Will End the Tyranny of Uncertainty

Former U.S. ambassador to Mexico and Argentina, and public policy fellow at the Woodrow Wilson International Center in Washington, D.C. The new U.S.-Mexico-Canada Agreement (USMCA) is a welcome step. If approved by each country’s legislature, the agreement will dissolve the uncertainty that has hovered over North America’s commercial and production networks for the last two years. A new rules-based agreement can be a major plus for the $1.2 trillion continental market. It is very important no
Pulse News Mexico •

Special Envoys, ‘Silos’ and Coherent International Policy

Former U.S. ambassador to Mexico and public policy fellow at the Woodrow Wilson International Center in Washington, D.C. Secretary of State Mike Pompeo recently appointed four special envoys to help him manage high priority portfolios regarding Iran, Afghanistan, Syria, and North Korea. His actions are understandable and can yield valuable results, if implemented well. The nomination and confirmation process for senior State Department positions in Washington and overseas has been terribly slow
TheHill •

New NAFTA will end the tyranny of uncertainty if approved

The new U.S.-Mexico-Canada Agreement (USMCA) is a welcome step. If approved by each country’s legislature, the agreement will dissolve the uncertainty that has hovered over North America’s commercial and production networks for the last two years. A new rules-based agreement can be a major plus for the 1.2 trillion dollar continental market. It is very important now, however, to have good assessments of the potential results that will flow from the agreement. While President Trump lauds the po
Wilson Center •

Special Envoys, “Silos” and Coherent International Policy

Secretary of State Pompeo recently appointed four special envoys to help him manage high priority portfolios regarding Iran, Afghanistan, Syria, and North Korea. His actions are understandable and can yield valuable results, if implemented well.  The nomination and confirmation process for senior State Department positions in Washington and overseas has been terribly slow, yet the world has not slowed.
Pulse News Mexico •

9 Million Reasons for the US to Get a Trade Deal Done with Canada

Former U.S. ambassador to Mexico and public policy fellow at the Woodrow Wilson International Center in Washington, D.C. As U.S. and Canadian officials resumed trade negotiations in Washington earlier this month, it is vital to realize that the United States gains massively from its economic relationship with Canada. Ending the North American Free Trade Agreement (NAFTA) and moving ahead with only a new U.S.-Mexico trade agreement, as the White House has threatened to do, would damage the Unit
Pulse News Mexico •

Argentina Deserves US, IMF Support along Rough Road to Recovery

Former U.S. ambassador to Mexico and Argentina, and public policy fellow at the Woodrow Wilson International Center in Washington, D.C. Argentina faces a new economic storm in the midst of extraordinary efforts to restructure its economy and to move against ingrained corruption. Argentina itself must take and implement the hard decisions to succeed on both fronts, but it deserves strong support from its international partners, including the International Monetary Fund (IMF), the United States
The Hill •

9 million reasons to get a trade deal done with Canada

As U.S. and Canadian officials resume trade negotiations in Washington, it is vital to realize that the United States gains massively from its economic relationship with Canada. Ending the North American Free Trade Agreement (NAFTA) and moving ahead with only a new U.S.-Mexico trade agreement, as the White House has threatened, would damage the U.S. and Canada. Compared to what is at stake for the United States, the remaining U.S.-Canada trade differences are small and resolvable.
The Hill •

Argentina deserves US, IMF support on rough road to recovery

Argentina faces a new economic storm in the midst of extraordinary efforts to restructure its economy and to move against ingrained corruption. Argentina itself must take and implement the hard decisions to succeed on both fronts, but it deserves strong support from its international partners, including the International Monetary Fund (IMF), the United States and the investment community, as it strives to achieve these laudable goals.
TheHill •

US-Mexico deal means very little without Canada

The “preliminary agreement in principle” between Mexico and the United States is an important step forward in the effort to agree on a modernized trade agreement in North America. It is important to recognize, however, that the bilateral U.S.-Mexico agreement is not a good substitute for a trilateral agreement that brings in Canada, America’s largest trading partner. Much work lies ahead to agree upon a new North American Free Trade Agreement (NAFTA) that will significantly benefit the United
Atlantic Council Blog •

Trump's New Trade Agreement: What's In It?

On August 27, US President Donald J. Trump and Mexican President Enrique Peña Nieto announced an initial agreement on a new bilateral trade relationship . The negotiations were initially intended to be a start for wider conversations on the North American Free Trade Agreement (NAFTA), including the third treaty partner, Canada. During the announcement, however, Trump implied that he may choose to negotiate bilaterally with Canada instead of reviving the tripartite agreement.
Load More Articles

2018 Interviews, Speeches and Presentations

WEDU Video •

December 2018: Ambassador Earl Anthony Wayne | Season 2018 Episode 12 | Suncoast Business Forum

Our trade agreement with Mexico and Canada, America's biggest trading partners, was just torn up and rewritten. Tariffs on imports from China and other countries are in affect and could go higher. Is the New World Order changing? And if so, where does the U.S. fit in? Former U.S. Ambassador Earl Anthony Wayne will be our special guest to give an inside perspective on America's role. Ran 15 times, from December 2018 through March 2019.
Wilson Center •

Between Free Trade and 'America First': Analyzing the United States-Mexico-Canada Agreement

After a two-year period of uncertainty on the future of the North American Free Trade Agreement, the United States Mexico and Canada reached a new deal on the U.S. self-imposed deadline of September 30. The United States-Mexico-Canada Agreement (USMCA) is now pending approval from each country’s legislature. If approved, what potential results will come from the agreement? The Wilson Center’s Canada and Mexico Institutes hosted a discussion on the beginning of a new era in North America’s trade
Atlantic Council •

A Modernized NAFTA

The new trade agreement between the United States, Canada, and Mexico “modernizes” the North American Free Trade Agreement (NAFTA) and lifts a cloud of uncertainty that has lingered over the past several months, according to Earl Anthony Wayne, a nonresident senior fellow with the Atlantic Council’s Global Business and Economics Program.In negotiations that went down to the wire, Canada agreed on September 30 to join the United States and Mexico in a revised version of NAFTA.
Wilson Center •

Telephone Briefing "The U.S.-Mexico Trade Deal: Is This the End of NAFTA?"

Yesterday, after more than a year of negotiations, the United States and Mexico announced a trade deal that resolves several contested bilateral issues. However, this tentative deal does not include Canada, which will join in negotiations this week. The deal has implications for jobs, manufacturing, and competitiveness across the continent. What does it mean for North American trade? What is the likelihood that the three countries will reach a trilateral trade agreement? What impact will this have on U.S.-Mexico relations? Senior Wilson Center experts discussed the implications of the U.S.-Mexico trade deal and what the next steps entail in this telephone briefing.
Load More Articles

2017 Artices

The National Interest •

It's in America's National Interest to Stay in NAFTA

President Trump’s new national security strategy stresses the importance of promoting America’s prosperity and security. It highlights rivalry and competition with China and Russia and underscores the importance of strengthening international alliances where partners shoulder their responsibilities. Our North American neighbors, Mexico and Canada, should be priority partners under President Donald Trump’s new strategy for enhancing U.S. security and prosperity. Both are willing and effective pa
CSIS •

Avoid an American “Brexit” with NAFTA

The United States, Mexico, and Canada are in the midst of renegotiating the North American Free Trade Agreement (NAFTA), which came into force in 1994. Millions of jobs, massive cross-border production networks, and broader cooperation on fighting transnational crime are at stake. Today, trade among the three countries has grown almost four times, supporting up to 14 million U.S. jobs and generating $1.3 trillion of commerce each year. The security, political, and economic costs and consequence
CSIS •

Beyond Trade: The Costs and Consequences of Exiting NAFTA

The North American Free Trade Agreement (NAFTA) is a free trade agreement signed by Canada, Mexico and the United States in 1993 and came into force on January 1st, 1994.  After more than 23 years of successful economic cooperation, supporting 14 million U.S. jobs and generating $1.2 trillion of commerce each year, the trade agreement is now being renegotiated and faces very tough challenges as the U.S. administration is pursuing major changes, not just a modernization.
HoustonChronicle.com •

Ditching NAFTA not in America's best interests

Texas has the most to lose of any U.S. state if NAFTA talks go wrong. It has a great deal to gain if the talks to modernize NAFTA go well. Now that the negotiations have slowed over controversial U.S. proposals, Texans and their elected federal and state representatives should be making very clear to the Trump administration team overseeing the NAFTA negotiations that they should do no harm to the massive Texas-Mexico trade relationship, and rather focus on creating new opportunities. The contr
Houston Chronicle •

Ditching NAFTA not in America's best interests

Texas has the most to lose of any U.S. state if NAFTA talks go wrong. It has a great deal to gain if the talks to modernize NAFTA go well. Now that the negotiations have slowed over controversial U.S. proposals, Texans and their elected federal and state representatives should be making very clear to the Trump administration team overseeing the NAFTA negotiations that they should do no harm to the massive Texas-Mexico trade relationship, and rather focus on creating new opportunities.
The National Interest •

The New Afghanistan Policy Is Set. The Question Is How to Implement It.

The focus now should be on the implementation of the new U.S. strategy for Afghanistan and the region. Commentators debate the pros and cons of the approach, but it is now U.S. policy. It requires careful coordination and integration of the tools of American power—military, diplomatic, economic and development—to move toward its objective: a negotiated Afghan political settlement. The policy’s specifics must now be defined and executed.
Revista Comercio Exterior •

North America’s Agenda for 2017 and Beyond

Continental supply chains that link Canada, the United States and Mexico mean that much of what is produced in each country has content from its neighbors. For example, a CRV SUV built in Jalisco, Mexico, has inputs of 70% from the United States and Canada. To establish these supply and production chains, private firms in all three countries have invested in their neighbors: U.S. companies have invested about 386 billion dollars in Canada and 108 billion dollars in Mexico.
The Hill •

Many of Trump's NAFTA goals aren't new — they're from the TPP

The United States Trade Representative (USTR) announced a set of U.S. trade objectives for a modernized North American Free Trade Agreement (NAFTA) on Monday. The objectives seem to offer a bit to everyone, trade skeptics and trade advocates alike. To do so, they use strong yet vague rhetoric on protectionists’ priorities, like the trade deficit, while promising to maintain and expand market access for U.S. farmers, manufacturers and the broader business community.
The Conversation •

The US and Mexico: Education and Mutual Understanding

Last week, officials from the U.S. and Mexico revitalized their commitment to fight cross-border smuggling of drugs, arms and money. U.S. officials recognized America’s demand for drugs as “the magnet” that feeds drug smuggling, and Mexico committed to tackle jointly the elements of the cartels’ business model. While illegal immigration and drugs dominate much of the public discourse around U.S.-Mexico relations, the partnership between these countries is vital and dynamic in many other ways.
Load More Articles

2017 Interviews, Speeches and Presentations

CSIS •

Beyond Trade: The Costs and Consequences of Exiting NAFTA

The North American Free Trade Agreement (NAFTA) is a free trade agreement signed by Canada, Mexico and the United States in 1993 and came into force on January 1st, 1994.  After more than 23 years of successful economic cooperation, supporting 14 million U.S. jobs and generating $1.2 trillion of commerce each year, the trade agreement is now being renegotiated and faces very tough challenges as the U.S. administration is pursuing major changes, not just a modernization.
CSIS •

Private Sector Engagement in Afghanistan

Private sector development in Afghanistan is a crucial topic for U.S engagement in the region. Between 2002 and 2010, about 57 billion US dollars of official development assistance (ODA) was disbursed to Afghanistan for purposes of reconstruction and development. Less than five percent of the ODA has gone towards private sector development in Afghanistan, with most of the money allocated to infrastructure, agriculture and rural development, and governance.
U.S.-Mexico Border Mayors Association •

Presentation to the U.S.-Mexico Border Mayors Association – Binational Summit, San Diego, CA

NAFTA 2.0 is a big opportunity for San Diego and the entire U.S.-Mexico border region. From the perspective of the cities and states along the U.S.-Mexico border there are two big objectives: first, do no harm to the massive trade, production and investment networks that support over a million U.S. jobs in the border states; and second, assure that NAFTA 2.0 creates new opportunities for economic growth, more fluid commercial border flows, and steps that will make cross-border production more competitive internationally.

2016 Articles

Wilson Center •

Shaping the New National Security Council

Many around the world and across the United States are watching with rapt attention reports about President-elect Trump’s potential national security team. His choices will be vital in shaping America’s international role for the years ahead. After forty years as U.S. diplomat, having worked through presidential transitions, I am watching from the outside, teaching about foreign policy decision-making at Hamilton College this semester.
The National Interest •

Why the Brussels Donor Conference Should Recommit to Afghanistan

This week, the European Union and the Afghan government will co-host the third in a series of conferences in Brussels that will convene Afghanistan’s partners to discuss future foreign assistance commitments. At the 2012 Conference in Tokyo seventy international donors promised to mobilize $16 billion for Afghanistan in total foreign assistance over the subsequent four years, with the United States expected to cover about half of the amount.
TheHill •

The business community is the driving force behind North America’s economic strength

On June 29, President Obama, Prime Minister Trudeau, and President Peña Nieto will meet in Ottawa for a North American Leaders Summit (NALS). While often ignored or criticized, America’s relations with Canada and Mexico touch the daily lives of more U.S. citizens than any other relationships in the world.  Positive, productive relations among neighbors will help generate the well-being and economic growth our citizens seek.
Forbes •

North America Must Compete Globally

Contrary to campaign rhetoric, the integration of North America over the past quarter century has successfully grown the continental economy and enabled it to compete in global markets. And, in North America this has been done without the centralized institutions that UK voters just rejected. The June 29 North American Leaders’ Summit in Ottawa offers an opportunity to launch even smarter collaboration across Canada, Mexico, and the United States that respects the sovereignty of each partner.
Peterson Institute of International Economics •

North America Must Compete Globally

Contrary to campaign rhetoric, the integration of North America over the past quarter century has successfully grown the continental economy and enabled it to compete in global markets. And, in North America this has been done without the centralized institutions that UK voters just rejected. The June 29 North American Leaders' Summit in Ottawa offers an opportunity to launch even smarter collaboration across Canada, Mexico, and the United States that respects the sovereignty of each partner.
The Globe and Mail •

Three Amigos, five important results for Trudeau, Obama and Peña Nieto

Michael Kergin is a former Canadian ambassador to the U.S.; Earl Anthony Wayne is a former U.S. ambassador to Mexico and Arturo Sarukhan is former Mexican ambassador to the U.S. This week's North American Leaders' Summit (NALS) in Ottawa is the first time Prime Minister Justin Trudeau, President Barack Obama and President Enrique Peña Nieto will discuss issues affecting the continent together.
RealClearWorld •

North American Leaders Must Not Surrender to Nativism

Relations among North America’s three big neighbors are much more important to their citizens’ self-interest than the great majority of those citizens realize. The U.S. media’s focus on Mexico is too often negative, while Canada frequently gets neglected. The political campaign season in the United States has magnified negative statements about North American ties by candidates building on stereotypes and false premises.
Forbes •

Toward A Cleaner And Leaner Energy Future For North America

Energy and Environment will be key topics when the leaders of North America gather for a Summit in Canada on June 29.  Because of a closer orientation among the three governments, the leaders of Canada, Mexico and the United States have a real opportunity to think about cooperation across our continent in a new way.  President Obama, Prime Minister Trudeau and President Peña Nieto can enunciate a shared strategic vision of energy security and environmental protection.
Load More Articles

2016 Interviews and Speeches

2011-2015 Op-Eds and other items published while Wayne served as U.S. Ambassador to Mexico

La Jornada •

Juntos Contra la Trata de Personas

Durante mis 40 años como diplomático he tenido el privilegio de descubrir tanto los mejores como los peores aspectos de países alrededor del mundo, incluido el mío. Uno de los temas más difíciles que he trabajado en múltiples naciones ha sido el aumento de la trata de personas. En mis casi cuatro años como embajador en México me he percatado agudamente de cómo el tráfico de personas es una plaga en este país y en nuestra región, América del Norte, como un todo.
El Financiero •

Trabajar en innovación es la nueva fase de las relaciones de México y EU

El embajador de Estados Unidos en México señala que hay que ir más allá de los intercambios comerciales y de inversión. Anthony Wayne, representante en México del gobierno de Estados Unidos, anunciará esta semana la firma de un Memorándum de Entendimiento entre las dos naciones con objeto de establecer programas de intercambio de pasantías para que mexicanos puedan acudir por algunas semanas a Estados Unidos y viceversa...
Milenio •

Una prensa libre, vital para la democracia

El sábado 3 de mayo celebramos el Día Mundial de la Libertad de Prensa, una ocasión para que los países conmemoren los principios fundamentales de este derecho, evalúen su estado a escala mundial, defiendan a los medios de los ataques contra su independencia y rindan tributo a los periodistas que han perdido sus vidas en la línea del deber. http://www.milenio.com/opinion/anthony-wayne/columna-anthony-wayne/una-prensa-libre-vital-para-la-democracia
La Jornada •

Contra la trata, primero identificar a las víctimas

La trata de personas debe preocupar a cada individuo, porque es la degradación de nuestra humanidad común. Debe preocupar a cada comunidad porque desgarra el tejido social. Debe preocupar a cada empresa porque distorsiona los mercados. Debe preocupar a cada nación porque pone en peligro la salud pública y alimenta la violencia y el crimen organizado. Estoy hablando de la injusticia, de la brutalidad de la trata de personas, a la que debe llamarse por su verdadero nombre: esclavitud moderna .
El Universal •

El Universal - Opinion - Celebrando los avances en derechos humanos

El Día Internacional de los Derechos Humanos, que celebramos cada 10 de diciembre, conmemora la adopción de la Declaración Universal de Derechos Humanos por la Asamblea General de la Organización de las Naciones Unidas en 1948. Al adoptar la declaración, Estados Unidos, México y gobiernos alrededor del mundo reconocieron que los seres humanos son, por virtud de su nacimiento, investidos con ciertos derechos inalienables, y que éstos sirven como “fundamentos de la libertad, la justicia y la paz alrededor del mundo".
La Jornada •

Día Mundial de Lucha contra el Sida

Alrededor del mundo, la atención de la gente se ha volcado sobre México por la toma de posesión de otro presidente libremente electo, Enrique Peña Nieto. Pero cada año, el 1º de diciembre también conmemoramos el Día Mundial de la Lucha contra el Sida (síndrome de inmunodeficiencia adquirida), y reflexionamos sobre las vidas perdidas a causa de este padecimiento. Es una oportunidad de rendir tributo a los 34 millones de personas que viven con VIH (virus de inmunodeficiencia humana) en todo el mundo. Hoy celebramos las vidas que se han salvado y que han mejorado, y volvemos a comprometernos con la lucha contra el Sida...
Excélsior •

Combatir la esclavitud moderna: la trata de personas

El 22 de septiembre de 1862, el presidente Abraham Lincoln anunció la Proclamación de Emancipación, que liberó a casi cuatro millones de hombres, mujeres y niños de las cadenas de la esclavitud y comprometió a Estados Unidos a terminar con este delito en toda la nación. Al conmemorar el 150 aniversario de este gran paso en la promoción de derechos humanos en Estados Unidos; países alrededor del mundo, incluyendo Estados Unidos, continúan marcados por servidumbre involuntaria y llevan el yugo de los mitos que la apoyan. Para erradicar esta moderna aflicción a la sociedad debemos de reconocer estos mitos y reemplazarlos con la verdad...
Load More Articles

1996-2009 Articles, interviews and other public references.

During his time in the U.S. Foreign Service, Earl Anthony Wayne published a number of articles and spoke at a number of conferences and seminars as well as testifying before the U.S. Congress. 

1987-1989 Articles published in The Christian Science Monitor

Mr. Wayne was the National Security Correspondent for The Christian Science Monitor based in Washington, D.C. from summer of 1987 through summer of 1989.  This is a listing of the articles he authored.

1977-78 Articles on China

While working on Chinese Affairs at the Department of State, Wayne published two scholarly articles.

Spring, 1978  "The Politics of Re-staffing China's Provinces: 1976-77," Contemporary China. Volume II Number 1

April, 1977    "China and the Third World," Contemporary China. Volume 1 Number 7

Close ✕