Additional Coverage:
Secretary of State Marco Rubio is heading to Central and South America for his first international trip since taking office. The six-day trip, starting in early February, will take him to Panama, El Salvador, Costa Rica, Guatemala, and the Dominican Republic. The State Department says this is the first time in over a century a Secretary of State has chosen Latin America for their inaugural visit.
Rubio stated in an opinion piece that this trip signifies a shift in American foreign policy, emphasizing a renewed focus on the Western Hemisphere. He believes the US has neglected its neighbors and allowed problems to grow.
Spokeswoman Tammy Bruce highlighted the region’s proximity as a key reason for the trip, emphasizing the importance of strong relationships with nearby nations.
Immigration is a major focus of the trip. Rubio aims to reinforce the administration’s immigration policies and address Chinese influence in the region. He plans to discuss border security, deportations, and the return of citizens residing illegally in the US with regional leaders.
The countries Rubio is visiting have generally cooperated with the current administration’s immigration policies. Guatemala, for example, has accepted numerous deportees. However, other nations, like Mexico and Honduras, have presented challenges.
Mexico has been hesitant to fully comply with US requests regarding deportations, while Honduras, a major source of deportees, has previously resisted mass deportations. However, there are signs Honduras may be softening its stance.
The administration has used both pressure and diplomacy to achieve its immigration goals. Threats of trade action against Colombia, for example, led to that country accepting deportation flights. Meanwhile, diplomatic efforts are underway with Costa Rica to address migrant flows through Central America.
Beyond immigration, Rubio’s trip will also address China’s growing influence, particularly in Panama. Concerns exist regarding China’s presence at both ends of the Panama Canal.
Rubio has expressed concern about the potential for China to use the canal against US interests. Panama’s president, however, has stated the canal’s ownership is not up for negotiation.