Mexico gov't rejects new U.S. immigration rules

Mexican government on Wednesday rejected tightened immigration regulations by the new U.S. administration that could see waves of undocumented migrants come in across its borders.

"We are not going to accept it, because there's no reason why we should. It is not in Mexico's interest," Foreign Affairs Minister Luis Videgaray said of the new rules.

The U.S. Department of Homeland Security on Tuesday issued new directives that appear to give authorities sweeping powers to deport immigrants lacking residency or work permits.

"Mexico's government is going to take all possible steps to defend the human rights of Mexicans abroad, especially in the United States," said Videgaray.

Earlier in the day, at a ceremony ratifying his country's commitment to upholding human rights, which was attended by representatives from the Office of the United Nations High Commissioner for Human Rights, Videgaray said Mexico may seek redress through the UN.

"Let it be very clear ... Mexican government will not hesitate to turn to multilateral organizations, starting with the United Nations, to defend the human rights and due process of Mexicans abroad, in keeping with international law," the foreign minister said.

Mexico has itself come under fire from international rights groups for its treatment of migrants, mainly from Central America, who cross Mexico as they head north in search of job opportunities.

In the meantime, the ministry is working through its network of consulates in the U.S. to educate Mexican migrants about their rights.

U.S. Secretary of State Rex Tillerson and Secretary of Homeland Security John F. Kelly are expected to make a visit to Mexico later Wednesday, meeting with Videgaray and Mexican President Enrique Pena Nieto. Endit