U.S. announces an additional $58.2 million in foreign assistance for El Salvador
June 25, 2020
Secretary of State Mike Pompeo announced that the United States had allocated $252 million in additional foreign aid for El Salvador, Guatemala and Honduras. These new funds will focus on regional programs aimed at advancing joint efforts to reduce illegal immigration to the United States from El Salvador, Guatemala and Honduras. The aid seeks to provide critical and vital assistance to these countries and will support their individual development and security plans; address the root causes of migration; and enhance private sector efforts to create economic opportunities in Central America.
Of the $58.2 million specifically designated for El Salvador, the United States Agency for International Development (USAID) will direct $41.2 million toward improving security, increasing economic opportunities, education and job training, human rights protection and improving municipal services. USAID will also provide assistance to support democratic elections with the necessary adjustments for COVID-19 prevention protocols. The Office of International Narcotics and Law Enforcement Affairs (INL) will allocate $1.8 million for regional and local security efforts.
Of the total $252 million for the region, $18.1 million will be allocated for humanitarian aid in the three countries, which includes $3.1 million specifically to help El Salvador provide emergency shelter and potable water, sanitation, and hygiene assistance in the aftermath of Tropical Storm Amanda.
In announcing this additional allotment of foreign assistance, Secretary Pompeo emphasized that the U.S. government remains focused on the health, prosperity, democracy, and security of the Western Hemisphere region.
