Vice President Félix Ulloa of El Salvador met with key officials from the International Republican Institute (IRI) to discuss strengthening bilateral relations, promoting trade, and advancing joint development initiatives. The meeting included IRI Vice President Kimber Shearer and Scott Mastic, Vice President of Programs.
During the discussions, Vice President Ulloa highlighted the significant transformation in security under the leadership of President Nayib Bukele, particularly through the Territorial Control Plan. He underscored the dramatic reduction in violence, noting that El Salvador, once dubbed the “homicide capital” of the world, has now become the safest country in the Western Hemisphere. This transformation has laid the groundwork for an economic resurgence in the nation.
“Former congressman and current nominee for attorney general, Matt Gaetz, visited El Salvador and witnessed this new reality of peace. Thanks to your leadership and the work of the Caucus, in just three months we were able to reduce the U.S. State Department’s travel advisory from Level 3 to Level 2—a significant milestone for our country,” said Vice President Ulloa.
Ulloa also highlighted the growth of the El Salvador Caucus in the U.S. Congress, which now boasts 17 members from both parties, reflecting strong bipartisan support for deeper cooperation between the two countries. The Vice President emphasized El Salvador’s commitment to innovation and digitalization, noting the presence of Google Cloud offices in the country—making it the only nation in the region to host such a facility. This development is central to the government’s efforts to modernize its digital infrastructure.
Vice President Kimber Shearer expressed appreciation for the opportunity to learn firsthand about El Salvador’s progress in security and governance. “We are confident that these achievements will open new doors to strengthen economic alliances and expand cooperation in areas like security,” Shearer said.
The meeting concluded with a reaffirmation of the strategic importance of the El Salvador Caucus in the U.S. Congress, which both sides agreed is crucial for advancing joint projects that will benefit both nations.