Ambassador Sergio González Gálvez in Japan (1983-1988): the job of serving the nation

Abstract

The objective of this research note is to analyze, through the review of documents from the Diplomatic Historical Archive, the diplomatic management of Ambassador Sergio Ernesto González Gálvez in Japan during the administration of Miguel de la
Madrid Hurtado. In particular, a selection has been made of some key aspects that, through his reports sent to the Secretary of Foreign Affairs, reflected his frank and direct character in carrying out a diagnosis of the state of relations between Mexico and Japan, but above all, it focuses on identifying the constant recommendations made by González Gálvez to make more efficient the efforts of the Mexican government to reverse the reluctant position that Tokyo had adopted after the financial crisis in Mexico in 1982. In that context, the Mexican ambassador was very open and vocal in denouncing the lack of coordination, but at the same time identifying areas of opportunity to expand bilateral cooperation and business opportunities in Mexico.