Adolfo Aguilar Zinser Quotes, born December 2, 1949, in Mexico City, was a Mexican scholar, diplomat, and politician who served as National Security Advisor to President Vicente Fox and Mexico’s Ambassador to the United Nations (2002–2003), notably during the U.S. invasion of Iraq, which he opposed. A Harvard-educated lawyer and international relations expert, he was known for his candid critiques of U.S.-Mexico relations and advocacy for Mexican sovereignty. His controversial 2003 speech labeling Mexico as the U.S.’s “back yard” led to his resignation from the UN post. He died in a car accident on June 5, 2005. These 15 quotes—sourced from interviews, speeches, and public statements—reflect his views on diplomacy, truth, and Mexico’s global role, capturing his bold and principled spirit.
15 Adolfo Aguilar Zinser Quotes
- “I am an undiplomatic diplomat.” (Letter of resignation to President Vicente Fox, 2003)
- “The understanding that the political and intellectual class of the United States has of Mexico is a country whose position is that of a back yard.” (Speech, Ibero-American University, Mexico City, November 11, 2003)
- “Any Mexican would recognise that Mexico was abused, undervalued and downgraded in international circles, most of all by the United States.” (Interview, BrainyQuote, n.d.)
- “We cannot pretend that reality is different from what it is.” (Interview, BrainyQuote, n.d.)
- “I believe that I have always told the truth.” (Interview, BrainyQuote, n.d.)
- “I don’t see how I can offend Mexicans with the truth. It is what Mexicans want to hear.” (Interview, BrainyQuote, n.d.)
- “Servants are not allowed to ask questions. They are only supposed to follow orders. That attitude has to change.” (Interview, BrainyQuote, n.d.)
- “Mexico has never been anybody’s backyard.” (Interview, BrainyQuote, n.d.)
- “I was never the diplomatic diplomat.” (Interview, BrainyQuote, n.d.)
- “The democracy we are constructing must be able to show its usefulness and relevance.” (Interview, BrainyQuote, n.d.)
- “Countries only have certain opportunities in history, and if you do not take advantage of them, those opportunities don’t ever come back to you again.” (Interview, Citatis, n.d.)
- “My work at the United Nations discomforted some members of the U.S. government, which exercises its power beyond collective understandings and international law.” (Interview, BrainyQuote, n.d.)
- “The political parties have lost their loyalties.” (Interview, BrainyQuote, n.d.)
- “We don’t have to be rude with each other; we have to be diplomatic.” (Interview, BrainyQuote, n.d.)
- “Trust comes from deeds.” (Interview, Citatis, n.d.)
Adolfo Aguilar Zinser’s quotes are a fiery blend of truth-telling, defiance against external dominance, and a call for Mexican pride, urging you to stand firm in your principles and challenge unjust narratives. Which quote ignites your sense of justice? Share it below and keep Adolfo’s fearless legacy alive!
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