Trump's statements damage Mexico-U.S. relationship: Mexican president

Mexican President Enrique Pena Nieto said Monday he regretted the statements about Mexico made by Donald Trump, the United States' Republican presidential candidate, adding that they are damaging relations between both countries.

"I am one of those people that regret and condemn these types of statements. It seems clear to me that it is due to ignorance about Mexico," the Mexican president said during an exclusive interview on Monday with local daily El Universal.

He said these "sometimes discriminatory" remarks are not only made by Trump, but also by some other prominent U.S. politicians.

Pena Nieto said that Trump's statements have hurt the relationship that Mexico is seeking with the United States -- a relationship based on dialogue and rapprochement, and looking for solutions to common problems through shared agreements and tasks.

Trump has expressed strong opinions about Mexicans throughout his campaign. He has even gone as far as calling them all criminals, rapists and drug traffickers.

Pena Nieto attributed Trump's statements to his ignorance. "Those who talk badly about Mexicans don't know Mexicans," said the president.

Trump also "doesn't know the important contribution made by millions of Mexicans who have decided to look for life opportunities in other countries, like in the United States," Pena Nieto said.

The U.S. presidential hopeful has also unveiled plans to deport 11 million undocumented migrants currently living in the United States, once he wins the White House. Endi