Mexican president opposes marijuana legalization

Mexican President Enrique Pena Nieto voiced opposition to legalizing marijuana on Wednesday, the same day when his government formally announced a debate into the topic.

The president stated that those who believe legalizing marijuana would help fight organized crime "were wrong," adding that Mexico would continue to actively fight drug trafficking to save the health of young Mexicans.

Pena Nieto was speaking after his government announced that a debate on the legalization of marijuana would take place. This decision came after the country's Supreme Court ruled in November that growing and smoking marijuana was legal in Mexico in the name of the right of freedom.

Despite the support of the courts, Pena Nieto has spoken out firmly against the legalization of marijuana. However, he has stated that he would welcome an educated debate, to discuss the matter from healthcare and human rights perspectives, in a forum organized by the Senate.

"A debate has begun and, while my personal position is against the legalization of marijuana, it cannot be forgotten that it can have medical uses. Therefore, the experts will provide clarity and light on this subject in the future," he explained on Wednesday.

Speaking during the inauguration of Mexico's new national protection system for children and adolescents, the head of state reaffirmed that the consumption of marijuana was unhealthy for young people. Endi