The U.S. Secretary of State, Marco Rubio, arrived in El Salvador on Monday afternoon as part of his inaugural official tour. Upon his arrival, he lauded the security measures enacted by President Nayib Bukele.
"President Bukele and his team have fostered an environment of safety and stability that not only welcomes but encourages private investment," Rubio stated to local reporters. He emphasized the notable reduction in crime rates and the aggressive stance against gangs as key successes of the Salvadoran government.
One of Rubio's initial engagements in El Salvador was meeting President Bukele and his family at the Presidential House. The Salvadoran government issued a formal welcome statement, underlining the significance of Rubio's visit in reinforcing ties between the two nations: "President Nayib Bukele's government is honored to warmly welcome U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio. His visit to El Salvador offers an opportunity to renew dialogue and foster amicable and cooperative relations. It also aims to establish a strategic work agenda with joint actions beneficial to our peoples and governments. Secretary Rubio, our new El Salvador welcomes you with open arms."
Rubio was greeted warmly and personally by President Bukele and his wife, Gabriela de Bukele, at their residence, alongside their daughters. Official photos captured the cordial exchange of smiles and greetings between Rubio and Bukele, with the presidential family showing a friendly reception to the American official.
The Presidential House of El Salvador shared on the social media platform X: "We welcome Marco Rubio, U.S. Secretary of State, to El Salvador. Upon his arrival at the International Airport, he was received by Foreign Minister Alexandra Hill Tinoco, Ambassador Milena Mayorga, and the U.S. Ambassador to El Salvador, William Duncan."
The U.S. Embassy in El Salvador highlighted that Rubio's visit aims to strengthen the bilateral relationship between the two countries. "He will address key bilateral issues that strengthen the relationship between our nations. His visit reaffirms the mutual commitment to collaborate in combating illegal migration and enhancing the security and prosperity of our countries," the embassy posted on X.
Rubio has consistently supported the security strategies implemented in El Salvador. During his stay, he will engage in discussions with government officials and private sector representatives on cooperation in security, migration, and trade.
Bukele's administration has been recognized for its Territorial Control Plan and the state of emergency in place since 2022, which have substantially decreased violence in the country. However, these policies have also faced criticism from human rights organizations for alleged violations of fundamental rights.
El Salvador marks the second stop in Rubio's tour, which will also take him to Guatemala, Costa Rica, and the Dominican Republic. In Panama, the Secretary of State held talks with President José Raúl Mulino about the Panama Canal. Before departing, he oversaw the departure of a flight deporting 43 Colombian migrants, underscoring the importance of migration agreements in curbing illegal immigration.
Insights on Marco Rubio's Visit to El Salvador
What did Marco Rubio say about El Salvador’s security policies?
Marco Rubio praised President Bukele and his government for creating a climate of security and stability that encourages private investment.
How did the Salvadoran government respond to Marco Rubio's visit?
The Salvadoran government expressed honor in welcoming Rubio, emphasizing the visit's role in strengthening dialogue and cooperation between the two countries.
What is the goal of Marco Rubio's tour in Central America?
Rubio's tour aims to reinforce bilateral relations, focusing on key issues like security, migration, and trade, while also addressing regional concerns.