U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio and Guatemalan President Bernardo Arévalo reaffirmed the deep ties between their nations in a high-level diplomatic meeting on February 5, 2025 at the Palacio Nacional de la Cultura. The discussions focused on border security, migration enforcement, combating transnational crime, and expanding economic opportunities.
Both leaders underscored their commitment to strengthening regional stability and prosperity, announcing several key initiatives to address the most pressing security and economic challenges.
Tackling Illegal Migration and Border Security
Guatemala, a key transit and origin country for migration, has agreed to increase deportation flights by 40%, ensuring the safe return and reintegration of Guatemalan nationals and repatriation of third-country migrants.
President Arévalo emphasized Guatemala’s dedication to humane migration policies, noting that the country is implementing a comprehensive reintegration program to support returnees by providing job training, certification programs, and employment opportunities in growing sectors such as tourism, infrastructure, and technical services.
“The best way to solve migration is to create opportunities at home,” Arévalo stated, announcing a high-level Guatemalan delegation will travel to Washington, D.C., to strengthen economic ties and attract investment.
Secretary Rubio praised Guatemala’s leadership in migration enforcement and reaffirmed the U.S. commitment to expanding support for Guatemala’s security and economic initiatives.
Cracking Down on Transnational Crime and Drug Trafficking
Guatemala’s strategic location makes it a key battleground in the fight against drug trafficking and organized crime. To bolster border security, Guatemala will launch a new Border Protection Task Force, consisting of combined forces from the National Civil Police and the Armed Forces, to secure the northern border and disrupt trafficking networks.
The United States will reinstate security assistance programs to combat:
? Drug trafficking, with a focus on disrupting fentanyl smuggling routes.
? Human trafficking networks, preventing the exploitation of vulnerable migrants.
? Financial crime and cartel money laundering, strengthening anti-corruption efforts.
“The criminal organizations that operate in this region threaten both our nations,” Rubio stated. “Guatemala’s proactive steps in security will be met with full U.S. support.”
Boosting Economic Growth and Infrastructure Development
A major highlight of the meeting was the U.S. commitment to partnering with Guatemala on infrastructure projects. Secretary Rubio announced that the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers will assist Guatemala in developing preliminary plans for two major port expansions—a move expected to enhance Guatemala’s role as a regional trade hub.
Additionally, the United States will explore investments in road, air, sea, and rail infrastructure, including potential collaboration on Guatemala’s first metro system.
“These projects will create thousands of jobs, strengthen Guatemala’s economy, and reduce the economic drivers of migration,” said Rubio.
Standing with Taiwan and Countering Foreign Influence
Both leaders reaffirmed Guatemala’s strong diplomatic and economic ties with Taiwan despite mounting pressure from China.
“We deeply appreciate Guatemala’s steadfast friendship with Taiwan,” Rubio said, emphasizing the importance of preserving democratic alliances. The U.S. pledged to support expanding Taiwan-Guatemala economic cooperation and to counter Chinese economic coercion in the region.
Looking Ahead: A Stronger U.S.-Guatemala Partnership
The meeting marked a new phase of strengthened cooperation between the U.S. and Guatemala, with both nations aligned on security, economic development, and democratic governance.
“Guatemala is a country of hardworking, determined people who deserve safety, opportunity, and prosperity,” President Arévalo stated. “With the support of the United States, we will build a future where Guatemalans thrive at home, rather than seek opportunities elsewhere.”
As both countries move forward, this renewed alliance is expected to yield tangible progress in regional security, economic stability, and strategic partnerships, reinforcing Guatemala as a key U.S. ally in Central America.