Mexico to resume talks with protesting teachers

Protesters from a CNTE splinter group have disrupted traffic this month while pushing for wage and pension reforms ruled out by authorities. (AFP pic)

MEXICO CITY: The Mexican government on Wednesday said it was resuming talks with protesting teachers who have attempted to disrupt World Cup 2026 festivities in Mexico City.

A breakaway group of the CNTE teachers union has blockaded streets and held chaotic demonstrations this past month, demanding a salary increase and pension reforms that authorities have deemed impossible.

Mexico City’s Azteca Stadium, where Colombia will play Uzbekistan on Wednesday evening, has been a focal point of anti-government protests during the football tournament.

An encounter between protesters and police near the stadium earlier in the day did not result in any incidents.

Education secretary Mario Delgado announced the resumption of talks with the teachers.

The government was looking to “formalise commitments so that all the girls and boys in the country can successfully complete the school year without setbacks”, he posted on X.

President Claudia Sheinbaum has questioned the value of continuing negotiations, which were put on hold a week ago.

“They say one thing at the table and then do something different outside,” the left-leaning leader said Friday, after announcing direct consultations with teachers about their grievances.

The world’s largest football extravaganza kicked off at Azteca Stadium on June 11.

Only a small group attended a CNTE protest against the launch, and the demonstration went ahead peacefully.

Other clashes outside the stadium that day occurred between police and protesting students.

Sheinbaum has previously accused the teachers of “provocation” by choosing to protest during the World Cup.