Press Releases 2009
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Ambassador McFarland stressed the regional nature of the Merida Initiative, which allows the U.S. to work hand-in-hand with its neighbors to combat common problems, such as narcotrafficking and organized crime. (Photo:Ministry of Government) |
The United States and Guatemala Implement the Merida Initiative
Guatemala, February 5, 2009
The U.S. Ambassador to Guatemala Stephen McFarland signed today a letter of agreement with the Government of Guatemala that puts into effect the Merida Initiative, a multi-year regional effort to combat organized crime. Minister of Government Salvador Gándara signed the letter on behalf of the Guatemalan government, which requested the assistance to the U.S. government through the Central American Integration System (SICA). Today’s signing of the letter of agreement formally obligates an initial $3,650,500 in funding of a $16 million total donated to Guatemala for the first year of operation. It obligates an additional $550,000 to Commission Against Impunity in Guatemala (CICIG).
Under this agreement, the Guatemalan Ministry of Government will undertake the following five projects fully funded by the U.S. Government: Central American Fingerprint Exchange, $400,000; Central American Vetted and Sensitive Investigative Units (SIU), $500,000; Transnational Anti-Gang Initiative (TAG), $1,225,000; Improved policing and police equipment, $975,500; and improved prison management, $550,000.
The Merida Initiative seeks to strengthen the capacities of the governments of Mexico, Central America, the Dominican Republic and Haiti to confront organized crime within their respective territories, acting individually and collaborating on a regional basis.
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Guatemalan Minister of Government Salvador Gandara (l) and Ambassador McFarland (r) discussed the Merida Initiative -- a multi-year regional effort to combat organized crime, gangs and the trafficking of narcotics and firearms – with local and international media. (Photo: Ministry of Government) |
This initiative consists of assistance in the areas of counternarcotics and counterterrorism; public security and law enforcement; and institution building and the rule of law to achieve four regional strategic goals: 1) break the power and impunity of criminal organizations; 2) assist in strengthening border, air, and maritime controls; 3) improve the capacity of justice systems; and 4) curtail gang activity as well as diminish drug demand.
Programs aimed at this enhanced cooperation are based on full respect for the sovereignty, territorial jurisdiction, and the respective internal legal system of each country, and are guided by the principles of shared responsibility, mutual trust, and reciprocity.
Representatives of the Government of the United States and the Government of Guatemala will meet quarterly to review qualitative and quantitative progress towards achievement of the project goals and objectives. These evaluations are in addition to the ongoing monitoring of the programs and activities conducted by each government.
Merida funding is provided under the International Narcotics Crime and Law Enforcement (INCLE) Funding. Other Merida components and regional INCLE funds that benefit Guatemala are provided separately. The government of the United States could continue to provide future funding for these projects contingent upon the availability of duly authorized and appropriated funds, satisfactory progress toward project goals, and the approval by the U.S. Department of State.
• Department of State Press Release: Merida Initiative