A landmark decision by Guatemala to increase acceptance of U.S. deportation flights by 40% is altering the dynamics of immigration and trade cooperation.
Quick Takes
- Guatemala will increase U.S. deportation flights by 40%.
- Infrastructure projects in Guatemala will boost regional trade.
- Guatemala continues to support diplomatic ties with Taiwan.
- Efforts aim to counteract China’s influence in Latin America.
Strengthening Deportation Processes
Guatemala has agreed to increase deportation flights from the U.S. by 40%. The agreement, focusing on Guatemalan nationals and deportees from other countries, was confirmed by Guatemalan President Bernardo Arevalo and U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio. In 2024, around 70,000 Guatemalans were repatriated from the U.S., which averages approximately 200 people daily. The U.S. employs C-17 military planes for these deportations, costing $4,675 per migrant, significantly more than the $853 cost per commercial flight. Brazil, Colombia, and Mexico oppose the use of military planes for deportations.
Guatemalan President Bernardo Arevalo’s announcement also made it clear that Guatemala will accept deportees of other nationalities. This decision underscores a shift in policy and a strategic alignment with U.S. interests. Details on this cooperation are expected to be fine-tuned in binational working groups soon.
🇺🇸🇬🇹 | BREAKING: Guatemala Strikes Deal with the United States in Taking Back Deportees Under New “Safe Third Country” Agreement
In a significant move following Secretary of State Marco Rubio’s visit, Guatemalan President Bernardo Arévalo has agreed to accept migrants from other… pic.twitter.com/TXIIJN5Ije
— Bienvenido (@bienvenido_us) February 5, 2025
Trade and Infrastructure Advancements
Secretary of State Marco Rubio announced several new infrastructure projects in Guatemala which include developing ports, highways, and railroads. These projects aim to enhance trade between the nations significantly.
“Today, I’ll be signing waivers on foreign aid that will continue that partnership, and hope to build on it,” Rubio stated, reinforcing the U.S. dedication to Guatemalan economic growth.
Guatemala is tasked with creating a task force to enhance border protection and tackle transnational crime. This commitment to security dovetails with the ongoing collaboration on infrastructure development between Guatemala and the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers. Combined, these efforts support regional stability and economic prosperity.
Geopolitical Considerations
Part of the collaboration between the two countries includes escalating efforts counteracting China’s “debt trap” activities in Latin America. Guatemala certainly intends to maintain its diplomatic relations with Taiwan, as confirmed by President Bernardo Arevalo. These diplomatic ties are critical in the context of increasing Chinese influence across Latin America. Rubio and Arevalo’s move represents a broader strategy to fortify U.S. relationships with nations like Guatemala and Taiwan.
“We have stated from the first moment that we maintain our diplomatic relationship with Taiwan,” said Arevalo.
The initiatives, agreements on deportations, and economic investments signify a mutual commitment to deeper cooperation between Guatemala and the U.S. as they tackle shared challenges alongside reinforcing regional stability and political affiliations. As these agreements progress, they reshape the dynamics of international relations in Latin America.
