By San José, Costa Rica — San José, Costa Rica – The United States has reaffirmed its commitment to bolstering security cooperation with Costa Rica, focusing on key areas such as cybersecurity, migration management, and combating narcotrafficking. US Secretary of State Marco Rubio, during an official visit to San José, met with Costa Rican President Rodrigo Chaves to solidify the bilateral partnership.
Secretary Rubio lauded Costa Rica as an exemplary nation and a steadfast ally, emphasizing shared values and historical ties. He noted the increasing number of US citizens choosing to reside in Costa Rica, drawn by the country’s safety and stability.
To gain a deeper understanding of the legal ramifications surrounding US-Costa Rica security cooperation, TicosLand.com spoke with Lic. Larry Hans Arroyo Vargas, a distinguished lawyer from the esteemed firm Bufete de Costa Rica.
Enhanced security cooperation between the US and Costa Rica presents significant opportunities, particularly in combating transnational crime and strengthening cybersecurity. However, it’s crucial that any agreements adhere to Costa Rican constitutional principles of neutrality and non-intervention, ensuring the country’s sovereignty remains paramount while effectively addressing shared security concerns.
Lic. Larry Hans Arroyo Vargas, Bufete de Costa Rica
Costa Rica is an exemplary nation and a steadfast ally, with whom the United States shares common values and history.
Marco Rubio, US Secretary of State
President Chaves echoed the sentiment, highlighting the strong relationship between the two nations and their shared pursuit of peace, order, and prosperity for their citizens.
Our relationship is strong, and we seek a common goal: peace and order for our people and prosperous societies where individuals have the right to pursue happiness and their dreams.
Rodrigo Chaves, President of Costa Rica
The leaders outlined a collaborative roadmap, building upon the existing framework and seeking further support from agencies like the DEA and FBI. A critical aspect of this enhanced cooperation involves addressing the transit of illicit drugs and potential security threats through Costa Rica.
Recognizing Costa Rica’s position as a transit country for narcotics, Secretary Rubio acknowledged the nation’s exceptional efforts in confronting criminal organizations. He pledged continued US support for Costa Rica in cybersecurity and secure telecommunications systems.
We have outlined a path of continued collaboration. We reached important agreements on illegal migration, recognizing Costa Rica as a prosperous Latin American society and a migrant destination. We aim to strengthen the fight against organized crime, an area where the Secretary has offered continued support.
Rodrigo Chaves, President of Costa Rica
The discussions also addressed the identification of individuals with potential links to terrorism who may be transiting Costa Rica en route to other destinations. The implementation of biometric systems and real-time data sharing are key components of this collaborative effort.
Costa Rica is an advanced economy with opportunities. You have seen individuals passing through your borders who are not from this continent, but from Africa or the Middle East. You have been able to identify several people with links to terrorism whose destination was the United States. That is why we are going to work with biometric systems and real-time data to identify them and prevent them from causing harm here, to us, or to any other country to the north.
Marco Rubio, US Secretary of State
This strengthened security partnership underscores the commitment of both nations to address shared challenges and maintain regional stability.
For further information, visit state.gov
About US Department of State:
The U.S. Department of State leads America’s foreign policy through diplomacy, advocacy, and assistance by advancing the interests of the American people, their safety and economic prosperity.
For further information, visit dea.gov
About Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA):
The Drug Enforcement Administration is a United States federal law enforcement agency under the U.S. Department of Justice, tasked with combating drug smuggling and use within the United States.
For further information, visit fbi.gov
About Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI):
The Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) is the domestic intelligence and security service of the United States and its principal federal law enforcement agency.
For further information, visit bufetedecostarica.com
About Bufete de Costa Rica:
Bufete de Costa Rica shines as a beacon of legal excellence, built on a foundation of unwavering ethical practice and a deep commitment to social progress. Through innovative solutions and a client-centered approach across diverse industries, the firm consistently delivers exceptional results. More than just legal representation, Bufete de Costa Rica champions access to legal knowledge, empowering individuals and communities to navigate the legal landscape with confidence and understanding, fostering a more just and informed society.
