U.S. Department of Homeland Security Secretary Kristi Noem met with Chilean leaders in Santiago to discuss joint efforts to address illegal immigration and crime. The meeting included Chilean Minister of Public Security Luis Cordero Vega, Attorney General Ángel Valencia, and Minister of Justice Jaime Gajardo Falcón.
“Today, America and Chile deepened our mutual commitment to security by discussing how we can work together on several key information sharing initiatives in the near future,” Secretary Noem said in a statement. “I am proud to announce that we signed a letter of intent for continued partnership on Biometric Identification Transnational Migration Alert (BITMAP) that will expand this vital data sharing program into new area. Chile also deserves applause for its efforts to stay compliant with our Visa Waiver Program and for its law enforcement’s efforts to stop criminals heading towards America from traveling through its country.”
During the visit, both countries took steps toward formalizing their cooperation on BITMAP by signing a letter of intent. This agreement signals ongoing collaboration between the U.S. and Chile in expanding biometric data sharing related to migration.
Chile agreed to accept all ICE charter flights and participate in programs such as Electronic Nationality Verification (ENV) and the Security Alliance for Fugitive Enforcement (SAFE). These measures are intended to strengthen regional law enforcement partnerships and support compliance with the U.S. Visa Waiver Program.
The United States plans to continue information sharing with Chile, engage in joint law enforcement training exercises, and seek additional opportunities for bilateral cooperation.
