On Monday, January 22, 2024, US officials met with Ecuador’s President Daniel Noboa and agreed to intensify their joint efforts against drug trafficking.
The officials were US Senator Christopher Todd and General Laura Richardson. Their discussion focused on increasing defense and security efforts.
Ecuador seeks to grow its trade with the United States. This growth aims to better the economy and create more jobs.
The government believes that economic improvement will help tackle crime from its roots.
In addition, Ecuador will work with the Andean Community to address its security crisis.
This group includes Bolivia, Colombia, Ecuador, and Peru. They met on the same day to commit to more cooperation and information sharing.
This commitment follows President Noboa’s statement that violence in Ecuador is a global issue.
Since January 9, Ecuador has been in a state of internal conflict. Violence has risen as organized crime, especially drug trafficking, has expanded.
The murder rate has spiked by 674% from 2019 to 2023.
In 2023, Fernando Villavicencio, a presidential candidate, was killed during his campaign. He had promised to fight criminal groups.
On the day of Noboa’s decree, a live TV broadcast in Guayaquil was attacked. On January 17, César Suarez, a prosecutor investigating the attack, was killed.
Daniel Noboa became president in November 2023. He will serve for one and a half years.
His election was moved up, following the impeachment process against former President Guillermo Lasso.
Background – Ecuador and US Boost Fight Against Drug Crime
This agreement between Ecuador and the US marks a pivotal moment in their bilateral relations. It reflects a shared commitment to combat drug trafficking.
The involvement of high-level officials from both countries underscores the seriousness of this commitment.
Ecuador’s strategic location makes it a key player in the fight against narcotics. The country’s efforts to boost trade with the US aim to diversify its economy.
This economic strategy is part of a broader approach to reducing crime by addressing its economic roots.
Historically, Ecuador has faced challenges with drug trafficking due to its borders with major producing countries.
The recent increase in violence highlights the urgent need for effective strategies.
This collaboration with the US and the Andean Community represents a significant step forward in addressing these challenges.