La Jornada: The US returns to Mexico two archaeological pieces of great value and in perfect condition

The United States Customs and Border Protection (CBP) delivered to the Consul General of Mexico in New York, Marcos Bucio, a Paquimé pot from Chihuahua and a Mayan ceremonial vessel, both in perfect condition, the diplomat’s office reported in a statement.

Both pieces were delivered by CBP Director Frank Russo, the consulate reported.

The delivery of these cultural assets is the result of cooperation between Mexico and the United States to stop and combat the illicit trafficking of cultural heritage, which is part of the history, identity and memory of this country.

The returned pieces are an anthropomorphic Mayan-style brazier, from the Yucatan Peninsula, in southeastern Mexico, dated between the years 200 and 900, and a tecomate modeled in clay with colorful geometric decoration, from the northern part of Chihuahua, dated between 700 and 1450.

The specialized opinions reveal that both pieces are of pre-Hispanic manufacture and are part of the archaeological heritage of Mexico.

“More than goods, living ties”

During the delivery, Marcos Bucio highlighted that these objects are not only goods, but living links with the history of the civilizations that gave rise to the cultural wealth of our country.

He added that the return to Mexico of these pieces strengthens national dignity, following the instructions of President Claudia Sheinbaum Pardo and Foreign Minister Roberto Velasco, with the purpose of reinforcing actions to protect, recover and restitute the nation’s cultural heritage.

Bucio expressed his appreciation to CBP, particularly its director, Frank Russo, and his team, for their support, professionalism and commitment in this case.

Likewise, he recognized the work of the Consul for Legal Affairs and Protection, Diego Sandoval, for the monitoring and coordination between the Mexican consulate in New York and the CBP during the restitution process.

This action adds to the efforts of the Mexican government aimed at combating the illicit trafficking of cultural property. In five years, the consulate in New York has contributed to the recovery of more than 2,400 archaeological pieces through collaboration between Mexican and American authorities.

The protection of cultural heritage is a priority of the Mexican State; Each recovered piece represents not only the return of the material good, but also the vindication of history, dignity and cultural sovereignty, reiterates the Mexican consulate in New York in the statement.