Ecuador’s Constitutional Court has approved a pivotal security agreement with the U.S. aimed at combating illegal transnational maritime activities.
The pact, signed by former Ecuadorian President Guillermo Lasso and awaiting ratification by current President Daniel Noboa, facilitates joint military operations.
These operations target illegal activities like drug trafficking, human smuggling, weapons of mass destruction, and illegal fishing.
The agreement’s main goal is to empower both nations in addressing illegal maritime activities.
It establishes a regulatory framework for the operation of aircraft, authorities, agents, and law enforcement vessels from both countries.
All participants must be clearly identifiable and carry the necessary authorization from their respective governments.
A key feature of the agreement is the development of a joint maritime operations program by the US and Ecuador.
Military personnel from both countries will serve as “agents aboard a ship” in their partner’s waters.
These agents are authorized to act against suspicious vessels and conduct patrols in national waters, including searches, arrests, and the use of force.
Article 4 of the agreement restricts US operations in Ecuadorian waters to cases with specific authorization from Ecuador.
This includes scenarios like approaching suspicious vessels and illegal fishing activities in Ecuador’s exclusive economic zone.
The agreement also allows the US Air Force to operate in Ecuador for transit, landing at specific air bases, and coordinating with the Ecuadorian Air Force.
Ecuador and U.S. Strike Deal for Maritime and Air Operations
Ecuador will grant US military personnel certain diplomatic privileges and immunities as part of the agreement.
It also considers the deployment of liaison officers to facilitate law enforcement and information exchange.
General Laura Richardson of the US Southern Command emphasized the strengthening of security collaboration between the US and Ecuador.
She highlighted the ESAR security support roadmap and the increased US military presence for various security and training operations.
The agreement reflects a significant step in bolstering the bilateral relationship between the US and Ecuador.