WASHINGTON - The United States and Honduras share a strong partnership. Our geographical proximity, common principles, and democratic values have led to close cooperation between both countries over the years, from addressing historical migration flows to efforts to build a more stable and prosperous region. The broad scope of this relationship has progressed into key agreements with respect to economic and environmental cooperation; cultural, humanitarian, and security support; counternarcotic efforts; and migration.
For many countries, the global challenges to achieving sustainable development have grown in recent decades. In the case of Honduras, natural disasters, drug trafficking, transnational criminal organizations, and international economic and financial conditions have all negatively affected the country’s economic growth, social development, human rights, and security. In this context, a holistic approach is needed to address irregular migration throughout the region.
Recognizing the mutual interest in overcoming these global challenges, both countries commit to implement the Agreement between the Government of the United States of America and the Republic of Honduras for Cooperation in the Examination of Protection Claims, which is designed to create economic and formal job opportunities for Hondurans with a joint commitment to continue building stronger border security and law enforcement cooperation.
This agreement incorporates the framework of applicable international conventions for individuals seeking protection to execute a more humanitarian approach to addressing out-migration from Honduras. It takes into account the economic capabilities of Honduras for implementation, as well as cooperation with the United States and international organizations. Both countries will periodically review implementation of this agreement and make the necessary adjustments or consider the potential expansion of cooperation to ensure its success.
The United States and Honduras reaffirm their commitment to combat mutual threats, including terrorism, transnational criminal organizations and gangs, drug trafficking, and trafficking in persons. Leaders from both countries pledge to promote economic prosperity, regional stability, democratic institutions, and the protection of human rights for the benefit of both nations.