The governments of the United States and Guatemala have issued a joint statement emphasizing their commitment to security, democracy, rule of law, and transparency. This declaration coincides with the inaugural High-Level Security Dialogue between the two nations.
Both countries have identified the dialogue as an essential step toward a collaborative strategy to address transnational security threats. The dialogue aims to lay the groundwork for enhanced cooperation in tackling shared challenges and advancing mutual interests.
A significant focus of this cooperation is the "Guatemala Se Transforma" initiative, introduced in Washington, D.C., in March 2024. The initiative revolves around three main pillars: Alliances, Good Governance, and Safe Communities. The U.S. Department of State’s Bureau of International Narcotics and Law Enforcement Affairs (INL) has pledged approximately $50 million in additional resources for this initiative, raising its total commitment to about $100 million.
Under the Alliances pillar, both governments have acknowledged the need for domestic partnerships with various stakeholders. Discussions were held with private sector representatives to explore opportunities for collaboration on strengthening security while promoting trade and commerce at Guatemalan ports. Meetings also took place with Indigenous and Garifuna representatives to discuss community-based solutions to security issues.
Regarding Good Governance, both governments stressed Guatemala's critical moment in countering corruption to fortify democratic institutions and enhance accountability. Efforts are underway by the Guatemalan government to modernize and reform its National Civil Police to better respond to emerging security challenges.
In terms of Safe Communities, achievements such as a 223 percent increase in drug interdiction through September 2024 were highlighted. As part of efforts against drug trafficking and organized crime, Guatemala will adopt regulations for better control over chemical precursors used in synthetic drug manufacturing.
Additionally, within Penitentiary System strategies, Guatemala has committed to completing certification processes for improving prison conditions with U.S. support.
Both nations emphasized their dedication to continuing this High-Level Security Dialogue as a means of strategic planning and implementing agreed-upon cooperation activities through short-, medium-, and long-term initiatives.
This dialogue builds upon previous high-level events held in Guatemala earlier this year, including economic discussions in March and migration talks in May. These efforts aim at promoting prosperity, security, and democracy within Guatemala and across the region.
