MEXICO CITY, Mexico: To quell any security concerns ahead of the upcoming FIFA World Cup, following the wave of violence in Jalisco after the killing of a cartel leader, Mexican President Claudia Sheinbaum visited the western state on March 5.

Clashes erupted between cartel gunmen and security forces, with cars being set ablaze across Mexico after the killing of the most powerful drug lord in Mexico, Nemesio Oseguera Cervantes, or "El Mencho" last month. However, the violence was most intense in Jalisco and its capital, Guadalajara, one of Mexico's three host cities for the World Cup.

The violence has left more than 70 people dead, including 25 members of the National Guard. The violence has raised concerns in Mexico and other countries about whether the city can safely host thousands of visitors.

President Sheinbaum held her morning news briefing at military headquarters in the municipality where cartel leader "El Mencho" was buried earlier this week under heavy security. The stadium that will host World Cup matches is also located there. She was joined by members of her Security Cabinet and senior military commanders.

"We are here to tell the people of Jalisco that we stand together and are working for peace, security, and the well-being of everyone in this beautiful state," Sheinbaum said.

With fewer than 100 days left before the World Cup, Sheinbaum and security officials explained the security plan for the tournament. The plan will involve more than 20 federal government agencies, including the Army and Navy, as well as local authorities.

Mexico's Security Secretary Omar García Harfuch said the country has also worked with officials from the United States, Canada, and FIFA to improve planning and prepare for possible risks.

He said the plan will include special training for officials, security planning and practice exercises, early warning systems, and strong security at stadiums, airports, roads, and hotels. There will also be protection for teams and visitors.

Sheinbaum has tried to show confidence despite the concerns. After the violence in late February, she spoke by phone with FIFA President Gianni Infantino, who said he had full confidence that Mexico could successfully host part of the World Cup. Earlier this week, Sheinbaum also posed with the World Cup trophy while wearing a FIFA scarf.

General Román Villalvazo, who oversees security coordination for the 2026 World Cup, said three joint security task forces had been set up in the host cities of Mexico City, Guadalajara, and Monterrey.

He said the 2026 FIFA World Cup, which Mexico, the United States, and Canada will host, will be an unprecedented event.

"For Mexico, it brings two major challenges," he said. "One is to show the world that the country is safe and reliable, and the other is to be ready to deal with any threats to national security."