During his visit to the country on Tuesday, U.S. Homeland Security Secretary Alejandro Mayorkas, signed an immigration agreement with Michael Soto, Minister of Public Security.

“We selected Costa Rica as the first partner and friend to sign such an important agreement for its leadership on issues that impact the region and, frankly, the world,” Mayorkas said.

The agreement signed between both countries will reinforce the Professional Migration Police and the Border Police, supporting the fight against human traffic and supporting programs for the integration, asylum of migrants refugees in this country.

The United States southern border with Mexico has recently experienced more immigration since the pandemic put a halt to tourism and the economy, specifically in Central America. By reinforcing policing measures along the border, Costa Rica will serve as a partner to the U.S. in its fight against human trafficking.

In addition, the agreement allows the expansion of international donations for humanitarian assistance and public health to countries that host massive groups of immigrants and refugees.