Haile Selassie I in Mexico: The Meeting of the Eagle and the Lion

A Sacred Encounter Between Ancient Civilizations

Emperor Haile Selassie I’s visit to Mexico was a profound moment of mutual respect between two nations with deep ancestral roots — Ethiopia, cradle of African civilization, and Mexico, heartland of ancient American empires like the Aztec and Maya. The visit was part of his 1960 diplomatic tour across the Americas.

Date of Visit:

1960, as part of his Latin American mission for unity, peace, and development.

Reception and Diplomatic Significance

Haile Selassie was received with full honors by President Adolfo López Mateos.
Official ceremonies were held in Mexico City, including a state banquet, press conferences, and meetings with government ministers.
The visit emphasized South-South relations between Africa and Latin America at a time when both continents were seeking post-colonial self-determination and identity.

Cultural and Spiritual Themes

The Emperor paid tribute to Mexico’s indigenous civilizations, highlighting their spiritual legacy and ancient wisdom.
He visited the National Museum of Anthropology and was shown the Aztec Sun Stone, linking it in symbolism to Ethiopia’s ancient Solomonic heritage.
There was a strong cultural exchange focus — scholars, artists, and diplomats met to discuss the African roots within Latin American culture, especially in music, art, and religion.

Geopolitical Vision

Haile Selassie envisioned a world where:

Developing nations cooperate outside of colonial power structures.
Latin America and Africa form alliances in the United Nations and global economic forums.
Nations like Mexico serve as bridges between continents, respecting cultural roots while advancing scientific and educational growth.

Coffee Diplomacy and Trade

Mexico and Ethiopia discussed potential coffee trade, as both countries are known for unique coffee production.
The Emperor emphasized fair trade and self-reliance, echoing his broader call for economic justice and development for formerly colonized nations.

Iconic Moments

Haile Selassie was photographed standing before ancient pyramids at Teotihuacan, a powerful symbol of ancestral connection.
A wreath-laying ceremony honored Mexico’s national heroes, aligning with Ethiopia’s own liberation legacy against colonial forces.
A spontaneous gathering of local people cheered him as a symbol of African pride and ancient wisdom.

Legacy of the Visit

Haile Selassie’s journey to Mexico left a cultural impression that still echoes in Afro-Latino and Pan-African circles.
It inspired intellectuals, artists, and spiritual thinkers to study the links between African and Mesoamerican civilizations.
His visit remains a testimony to the global vision of unity, peace, and identity that he carried throughout his reign.