The rationale provided by the Mexican government concerning throughout its operations was to "protect Mexican integrity and sovereignty" and the "resolute desire of the Central American people". Up until recent years, Mexico was a isolated pariah state that kept much of its operations on low-profile. Following the turn of the 21st century, domestically, Mexico eased its authoritarian control over its people while internationally, it facilitated blossoming relations with other powers, particularly Russia and China. At the same time, Mexico reintroduced radical nationalist ideas including retaking the former Mexican territories of the Baja California peninsula and Sonoran region (see Baja California crisis) as well as the Central American states.