A Salvadoran humanitarian contingent that assisted in relief efforts following the remnants of Hurricane Rafael and tropical depressions in Costa Rica has returned to El Salvador. The team, composed of 304 members, including rescuers, paramedics, and canine units, played a crucial role in providing support to the affected regions of Guanacaste and Limón.

The first group of 150 personnel, part of the General Directorate of Civil Protection, arrived at the San Óscar Arnulfo Romero International Airport on Thursday. They were warmly received by El Salvador’s Minister of National Defense, René Francis Merino Monroy, who praised their quick and effective response.

«I am proud of the dedication with which you carried out your work in Costa Rica,» said Vice Admiral Merino Monroy. «It is admirable how quickly we came together to fulfill President Nayib Bukele’s order to support our Costa Rican brothers.»

The mission’s primary focus was to clear roads blocked by landslides, allowing for the timely delivery of food, medical supplies, and other assistance to communities cut off by the storms. Over 400 tons of aid, including food and medical supplies, were sent to help those in urgent need.

Costa Rican Ambassador to El Salvador, Lina Ajoy, expressed her gratitude on behalf of Costa Rica’s President Rodrigo Chaves. She highlighted the vital role the Salvadoran teams played in opening roads, enabling the delivery of critical supplies to isolated communities.

«The work you did to open roads so that ambulances, aid, and food could reach those who needed it most was fundamental,» said Ambassador Ajoy. «Many families in Costa Rica were able to receive food in the most critical moments of the emergency, thanks to your collaboration and solidarity.»

In addition to providing physical aid, the Salvadoran contingent brought much-needed hope to the affected communities. «Your presence gave hope to many people who were distressed and helped to transfer people to safety,» Ajoy added.

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The successful mission underscores the strong solidarity and cooperation between El Salvador and Costa Rica, as both countries continue to support each other in times of crisis.

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