US Secretary of State discusses ways to enhance bilateral cooperation with the President of Honduras in Washington

Washington, Nov 13 (KUNA) – U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio held talks today with Honduran President Nasry Asfura to explore ways to enhance bilateral cooperation in defense, security, and migration, as well as to expand trade and increase U.S. investments in Honduras. The U.S. State Department said in a statement that Secretary Rubio met with Asfura during his current visit to Washington, expressing appreciation for the enduring partnership between the two countries in confronting security challenges and advancing shared priorities. The statement added that the U.S. Secretary of State commended the Honduran president’s role in the “Americas Shield” initiative and the “American Alliance to Combat Drug Gangs,” and praised Honduras’s recent decision to designate MS-13 and Barrio 18 as foreign terrorist organizations. It clarified that the two sides discussed opportunities to expand bilateral trade and boost U.S. investments in Honduras, while Rubio reaffirmed U.S. support for the Honduran people in addressing drought conditions caused by the El Niño climate phenomenon. He also noted that both parties reaffirmed their commitment to deepening cooperation for a safer, stronger, and more prosperous Western Hemisphere. (End) A.M.M. / M.A.H.A.