New arrangements signed by the United States and Honduras address mutual challenges of irregular migration.
This development is part of the U.S. effort to address illegal immigration to the United States. In recent months, the U.S. government has also entered into migration-related agreements with Guatemala and El Salvador.
On September 25, Honduras and the United States signed an asylum cooperation arrangement to “confront irregular migration through Central America,” a Department of Homeland Security (DHS) press release said. The safety of those seeking asylum is a priority for the United States and Honduras, and both nations have committed to work together so that these vulnerable populations are not victimized by smugglers.
Acting Secretary of Homeland Security Kevin McAleenan and Honduran Foreign Minister Lisandro Rosales signed two more arrangements on September 27 that will help accomplish the following:
- Mitigate migration flows to the U.S.-Mexico border, including by enhancing cooperation to increase capacity for criminal investigations against gangs, human smuggling and trafficking networks.
- Advance bilateral information-sharing to enhance border security.
The United States and Honduras also signed a fourth arrangement September 27 to cooperate on nonimmigrant visa programs that facilitate employment opportunities for temporary workers from Honduras seeking employment in the United States. This agreement will contribute to joint efforts to “promote foreign direct investment, trade facilitation, and customs enhancement,” according to a DHS press release.
Secretary Pompeo highlighted the importance of the asylum agreement:
The Honduran government’s support in confronting this crisis in the region is critical. This agreement expands protections for vulnerable migrants & undermines human smugglers. It is a key step in advancing our shared, regional approach to this challenge. https://t.co/TiddOXILHl
— Secretary Pompeo (@SecPompeo) September 26, 2019