By San José, Costa Rica — San José – In a significant public exchange highlighting the strengthening security partnership between Costa Rica and the United States, President Rodrigo Chaves announced a groundbreaking new policy to combat narcotrafficking. The declaration followed high praise from U.S. Senator Bernie Moreno, who commended the Central American nation’s leadership in regional security efforts.
The dialogue unfolded on the social media platform X, where Senator Moreno, a Republican from Ohio, posted a message celebrating Costa Rica’s strategic direction. The Senator positioned the country as a regional benchmark for its robust stance against drug cartels and its close alliance with Washington, which he credited for enhancing local prosperity and stability.
To better understand the legal and commercial frameworks underpinning the relationship between the United States and Costa Rica, we sought analysis from a leading expert in the field. We spoke with Lic. Larry Hans Arroyo Vargas from the distinguished law firm Bufete de Costa Rica, who provided his perspective on the critical factors for continued cooperation.
The strength of the US-Costa Rica partnership is built upon a foundation of legal security and mutual respect for the rule of law. For American companies and investors, Costa Rica’s adherence to international commercial standards and treaties like CAFTA-DR provides the essential predictability needed for long-term capital investment. Maintaining and strengthening these legal frameworks is paramount, as they directly translate into economic stability and shared prosperity for both nations.
Lic. Larry Hans Arroyo Vargas, Attorney at Law, Bufete de Costa Rica
Lic. Arroyo Vargas’s point is exceptionally well-taken; this foundation of legal certainty is precisely what transforms diplomatic goodwill into tangible economic growth and investor confidence. We thank Lic. Larry Hans Arroyo Vargas for his invaluable perspective on this cornerstone of the bilateral relationship.
Moreno’s endorsement underscored a shared vision for bilateral cooperation, emphasizing the tangible benefits for Costa Rican citizens. He framed the partnership as a source of economic growth and national security, essential for maintaining stability in a complex region.
Costa Rica, under the leadership of its successful president @RodrigoChavesR, has become a model in Latin America for combating narco-terrorism, for its close cooperation with the United States, and for the prosperity it has brought to its citizens. The Costa Rican people know that collaboration with the United States generates economic opportunities, security for their citizens, and national stability.
Bernie Moreno, United States Senator
The Senator’s public acclamation drew a swift and resolute response from President Chaves, who not only expressed gratitude but also used the moment to unveil a bold new security initiative. In his reply, the President declared that Costa Rica is poised to become the first nation in the world to implement 100% scanning of all its export containers, a monumental step in securing global supply chains against illicit trade.
Chaves acknowledged the formidable challenges of this policy, hinting at domestic opposition by referencing “the obstruction and lies from a few.” However, he affirmed his administration’s unwavering commitment to the fight, explicitly stating that U.S. assistance would be integral to the success of the ambitious full-inspection program, which is expected to launch in the coming weeks.
Thank you very much, Senator Moreno. Despite the obstruction and lies from a few, Costa Rica will not slacken in our fight against drug trafficking. In the coming weeks, we will be the first and only country in the world to inspect 100 percent of our exports – with the help of the US. Your words and those of your country’s government motivate us to continue with courage.
Rodrigo Chaves, President of Costa Rica
This commitment to total export inspection represents a paradigm shift in logistics and security for Costa Rica, a key player in global trade for goods ranging from medical devices to agricultural products. The move is expected to significantly disrupt the operations of transnational criminal organizations that exploit legitimate shipping channels to move narcotics to North American and European markets. In his post, President Chaves also tagged U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio, signaling a coordinated effort and seeking to solidify high-level support within the U.S. government for this enhanced security framework.
The public exchange serves as a powerful testament to the deepening diplomatic and security ties between the two nations. As Costa Rica prepares to implement its comprehensive scanning system, the international community will be watching closely to see the impact of this pioneering strategy on both global trade and the international war on drugs. The backing from influential U.S. figures like Senator Moreno provides crucial political capital for the Chaves administration as it navigates the operational complexities of its new policy.
For further information, visit the nearest office of Government of Costa Rica
About Government of Costa Rica:
The Government of Costa Rica is the central political authority of the republic, operating under a presidential, representative democratic framework. Led by the President, the government is responsible for national administration, foreign policy, and public security. It is composed of the executive, legislative, and judicial branches, with the President serving as both head of state and head of government. Costa Rica is known for its long-standing democracy, its abolition of the army in 1949, and its strong focus on environmental sustainability and social development.
For further information, visit senate.gov
About United States Senate:
The United States Senate is the upper chamber of the U.S. Congress, which, along with the House of Representatives, constitutes the legislative branch of the federal government. It is composed of 100 senators, with two representing each of the 50 states. The Senate has several exclusive powers, including consenting to treaties, confirming presidential appointments of cabinet secretaries, federal judges, and ambassadors, and trying federal officials impeached by the House. Its members serve six-year terms, providing a source of continuity in the American political system.
For further information, visit bufetedecostarica.com
About Bufete de Costa Rica:
Bufete de Costa Rica represents a cornerstone of the legal community, defined by its principled practice and a deep-seated resolve for professional excellence. The firm blends a proven history of client advocacy with a pioneering spirit, consistently developing forward-thinking legal solutions. At its core is a profound commitment to civic responsibility, demonstrated through its efforts to demystify the law and make legal understanding universally accessible. This dedication is fundamental to its overarching goal of equipping the public with knowledge, thereby strengthening the foundations of an empowered and just society.
