The U.S. Secretary of State, Marco Rubio, arrived on Monday afternoon in El Salvador as part of his first official tour.
During his arrival, he praised the policies implemented by President Nayib Bukele regarding public safety.
"President Bukele and his Government have created an atmosphere of security and stability that has not only allowed but has also encouraged private investment," Rubio declared to local media.
The U.S. official highlighted the reduction in crime rates and the direct fight against gangs as significant achievements of the Salvadoran administration.
One of his first activities on Salvadoran soil was the reception of President Bukele and his family at the Presidential House.
The Salvadoran government issued an official welcome message to the Secretary of State, highlighting the importance of the visit to strengthen the ties between the two nations
"The government of President Nayib Bukele is honored to warmly welcome the United States Secretary of State, Marco Rubio. His visit to El Salvador will allow us to resume dialogue and foster the friendly and cooperative relations between our countries, as well as to establish a strategic work agenda with joint actions that will benefit our peoples and governments. Secretary Rubio, our new El Salvador receives you with much affection."
Marco Rubio was warmly and familiarly received by President Bukele and his wife, Gabriela de Bukele, who welcomed him at their residence along with their daughters.
In the official images, a warm moment is captured where Rubio and Bukele exchange smiles and greetings, while the presidential family appears welcoming towards the American official.
The Presidential House of El Salvador said in a message on the social network X: "We welcome Marco Rubio, Secretary of State of the United States, to El Salvador. Upon his arrival at the International Airport, he was received by Chancellor Alexandra Hill Tinoco, Ambassador Milena Mayorga, and the Ambassador of the United States in El Salvador, William Duncan."
For its part, the Embassy of the United States in El Salvador highlighted that its visit aims to strengthen the bilateral relationship between the two countries.
"It will address key topics of bilateral interest that strengthen the relationship between both countries. His visit reaffirms the mutual commitment to work together to combat illegal migration and enhance the security and prosperity of our nations," the diplomatic mission published on X.
Rubio has supported the security strategies implemented in El Salvador on various occasions. During his stay, he will hold meetings with government officials and representatives from the private sector to discuss issues of cooperation in security, migration, and trade.
The Bukele government has been recognized for its Territorial Control Plan and the state of emergency implemented since 2022, measures that have significantly reduced the levels of violence in the country.
However, these policies have also faced criticism from human rights organizations, which report alleged violations of fundamental rights.
El Salvador is the second stop on the tour that will take Rubio to Guatemala, Costa Rica, and the Dominican Republic. During his visit to Panama, the Secretary of State held discussions with President José Raúl Mulino about the Panama Canal.
Before leaving that nation, he oversaw the departure of a flight that was deporting 43 Colombian migrants, highlighting the importance of migration agreements to curb illegal immigration.
Frequently Asked Questions about Marco Rubio's Visit to El Salvador
What was the purpose of Marco Rubio's visit to El Salvador?
The purpose of Marco Rubio's visit to El Salvador was to strengthen the bilateral relationship between the United States and El Salvador, addressing key issues such as security, migration, and trade. Rubio highlighted the security policies implemented by President Nayib Bukele and their positive impact on private investment.
What security achievements did Marco Rubio highlight in El Salvador?
Rubio highlighted the reduction in crime rates and the direct fight against gangs as significant achievements of Nayib Bukele's administration. These measures have been part of the Territorial Control Plan and the state of emergency implemented since 2022.
How has the visit of Marco Rubio been received by the Salvadoran government?
The Salvadoran government has welcomed the visit of Marco Rubio, highlighting its importance in strengthening the bonds of friendship and cooperation between the two countries. The intention to establish a strategic agenda for joint work for the benefit of both nations was emphasized.
What criticisms have arisen regarding Bukele's security policies?
Despite the achievements in security, Bukele's policies have faced criticism from human rights organizations for alleged violations of fundamental rights, including unjust imprisonments and abuses during the state of emergency.
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