In a significant step toward strengthening bilateral relations and advancing energy security, the United States and El Salvador signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) on Strategic Civil Nuclear Cooperation on February 3, 2025. The agreement, signed by U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio and Salvadoran Foreign Minister Alexandra Hill Tinoco, paves the way for enhanced collaboration in nuclear energy development, technological innovation, and economic growth.
The signing ceremony, held at the InterContinental San Salvador, was attended by high-ranking officials from both nations, including U.S. Ambassador to El Salvador William Duncan, Vice Minister of Foreign Affairs Adriana Mira, and Salvadoran Ambassador to the United States Milena Mayorga.
A New Era of Energy Cooperation
The agreement marks a milestone in El Salvador’s efforts to diversify its energy portfolio and reduce dependence on fossil fuels. Foreign Minister Hill Tinoco hailed the MOU as a transformational step in achieving energy independence and economic growth.
“This partnership is a commitment to our prosperity and sustainability,” said Hill Tinoco. “Nuclear energy will provide El Salvador with affordable, 24/7 electricity while reducing our dependence on global oil markets.”
Beyond power generation, the agreement will enable El Salvador to explore nuclear applications in medicine, agriculture, water management, and waste disposal—sectors that will benefit from cutting-edge American expertise and investment.
U.S. Commitment to El Salvador’s Development
Secretary Rubio emphasized that the U.S. is committed to supporting El Salvador’s modernization efforts by providing training, regulatory guidance, and technical expertise. He underscored the remarkable transformation of El Salvador under President Nayib Bukele’s leadership, particularly in improving national security and economic stability.
“This is more than an energy deal—this is a step toward a 21st-century economy for El Salvador,” Rubio stated. “With reliable, clean nuclear power, El Salvador will become a hub for high-tech industries and foreign investment, ensuring long-term economic growth and security.”
Unprecedented Security and Migration Agreement
During his remarks, Rubio made a major announcement regarding migration and law enforcement cooperation following a three-hour private meeting with President Bukele. The two leaders agreed to an extraordinary security deal aimed at curbing illegal immigration, deporting transnational criminals, and strengthening border enforcement.
Under the agreement:
✅ El Salvador will accept and incarcerate MS-13 and Tren de Aragua gang members deported from the U.S., ensuring they do not pose a threat elsewhere.
✅ Bukele has offered to house criminal illegal migrants of any nationality in Salvadoran prisons, an unprecedented move in international law enforcement cooperation.
✅ El Salvador will also accept American citizens and legal residents who are deemed dangerous criminals, easing the burden on the U.S. prison system.
Rubio praised Bukele’s bold leadership, calling the agreement “the most extraordinary migratory cooperation in modern history.” He noted that President Trump had been briefed on the agreement and expressed his strong approval.
Countering Foreign Influence in Latin America
The discussions also addressed the growing economic and political influence of the Chinese Communist Party (CCP) in the region. Both leaders reaffirmed their commitment to protecting Latin America’s sovereignty from foreign coercion.
Rubio emphasized that U.S. engagement in El Salvador is aimed at fostering long-term prosperity, ensuring that infrastructure projects, energy investments, and trade policies align with democratic values and fair economic practices.
A Strengthened U.S.-El Salvador Alliance
With the signing of the Strategic Civil Nuclear Cooperation MOU and the groundbreaking security pact, U.S.-El Salvador relations have entered a new phase of strategic cooperation. These agreements set the stage for economic transformation, regional stability, and an enhanced U.S. presence in Latin America.
As El Salvador continues its economic and security advancements, the United States remains a key partner, providing the resources and expertise needed to build a safer, more prosperous future.
“This is just the beginning,” Hill Tinoco declared. “Together, we are building a future based on friendship, innovation, and shared values.”
As the agreement was signed, applause echoed through the InterContinental San Salvador, marking a historic moment in U.S.-El Salvador relations—one that promises a brighter, more secure future for both nations.