WASHINGTON--Today, the Acting Secretary of the Department of Homeland Security, Kevin K. McAleenan, met with the President of Honduras, Juan Orlando Hernandez, regarding a shared commitment to improving security and addressing irregular migration in the western hemisphere.
The Acting Secretary was joined by the Deputy Assistant Secretary of State for Western Hemisphere Affairs, Hugo Rodriguez.
Both countries committed to working together on improving security and addressing irregular migration through enhanced law enforcement sharing with competent authorities in Honduras to investigate and prosecute those involved in organizing mass violations of immigration law and human trafficking offenses. Both countries also pledged to expand access to protection for vulnerable populations, especially children. Both countries agreed to work together to address expanding legal immigration from Honduras to support U.S. business interests and reducing non-tariff trade barriers to promote foreign direct investment.
By working cooperatively, both governments will work to combat human smuggling and trafficking in the region, and support Honduras in its efforts to combat gang violence. These efforts will build on existing bilateral agreements between the United States and Honduras, and reflect a shared commitment toward regional and hemispheric security. Both countries also recognize the shared responsibility in the region to expand access to protection as fundamental to addressing irregular migration. Through this expanded partnership, the United States is working to support the public safety and security in Honduras for its citizens.
The U.S. and Honduras share a common cause in confronting the ongoing border security and humanitarian crisis so that both governments can promote security and prosperity throughout the region. The U.S. Government looks forward to expanded partnership with Honduras to address irregular migration, increase security, and facilitate broader regional cooperation. By strengthening the relationship between the two countries through such cooperation, the U.S. and Honduras, as partners, will better protect the most vulnerable populations of Honduras while confronting irregular migration.