San Jose, 15 December 2023 (TDI): On December 14, Deputy Secretary Richard Verma met with Costa Rican President Chaves and Foreign Minister Arnoldo Andre to discuss the outcomes of the launch of the US-Costa Rica High-Level Security Dialogue in San Jose.
The US Department of State released a media note on its official website identifying ways to expand the US and Costa Rican partnership on shared goals related to security, human migration management, and overall economic prosperity.
Additionally, the aim is to discuss cooperation on regional and global issues.
Deputy Secretary Verma, in a written statement, said, “We value Costa Rica’s strong partnership in fostering a more secure, resilient, and prosperous Western Hemisphere.” Furthermore, he added, “America is excited about new initiatives implemented together.”
Secretary Verma advises that by strengthening security investment and cooperation, they can protect democracy, human rights, and the rule of law.
Costa Rica and America are working closely for workforce development for Costa Rica’s Regional Center of Excellence. Consequentially, this is a significant development in cyber security, semiconductors, and other high-tech fields to meet the challenges of the 21st century.
Also Read: Costa Rica-US to enhance bilateral ties
The Secretary was impressed by the work in Costa Rica to meet the urgent humanitarian needs of refugees and vulnerable migrants. He said, “The Fundacion Llovera migrant shelter, supported by UNICEF and Population, Refugees and Migration Bureau (PRM) proceed with our collaborative effort to ensure safe and humane migration.
Moreover, Secretary Verma was inspired by the impact of Sembremos Seguridad, or Let’s Sow Security program while in Costa Rica with the support of the U.S. Department of State in helping improve citizens’ security and give young people an alternative to crime.
Deputy Secretary Richard Verma and Foreign Minister Arnoldo Andre expressed their intention to hold the next meeting in Washington in 2024.