Mexico offers temporary work permits to caravan migrants

The caravan of Central America migrants set off from Honduras several weeks ago is presently going towards the United States through Mexico. The nation has offered temporary work permits to migrants who register for asylum. The plan also envisages temporary ID cards, medical care and schooling.

But to qualify, migrants must remain in Mexico's southern Chiapas and Oaxaca states.

The Trump authorities has warned that about 800 troops may be sent to the US-Mexico border to stop the migrant caravan.

The Mexican authorities are coming under increasing pressure from the Trump administration to find a solution to this caravan.

"I am bringing out the military for this National Emergency," US President Donald Trump said earlier this week. "They [migrants] will be stopped!"

Earlier, the president also threatened cutting aid to Guatemala, El Salvador and Honduras.

Mexican President Peña Nieto announced the scheme that covers Central Americans who have officially asked for a refugee status in Mexico or are planning to do so in the nearest future.

"Today, Mexico extends you its hand," President Nieto said.

"This plan is only for those who comply with Mexican laws, and it's a first step towards a permanent solution for those who are granted refugee status in Mexico," he added.

But President Nieto failed to explain what would happen to the migrants if they chose to carry on regardless.