El Salvador presented its latest achievements in security, tourism, and economic development during the Economic Forum on Investment and Growth Prospects for the Region, hosted by the Central American Parliament (Parlacen). The event gathered regional leaders, development banks, and business representatives to discuss sustainable and inclusive growth across Central America and the Dominican Republic.
Vice President Félix Ulloa delivered the keynote presentation, “Comprehensive Policies for the Promotion of Economic and Social Development in the Central American Region: The Salvadoran Experience.” In his address, Ulloa detailed El Salvador’s transformation under President Nayib Bukele, citing more than 930 homicide-free days achieved through the Territorial Control Plan, and a 2.6% GDP growth rate reflecting renewed economic momentum.
“This level of security was the first condition that a responsible government needed to establish,” said Ulloa, highlighting that public safety laid the foundation for economic revitalization. He emphasized that the government’s current focus is to strengthen economic growth, now that peace and stability have been restored in communities previously affected by criminal structures.
El Salvador, he added, is also preparing for the fifth industrial revolution, implementing legal incentives for tech companies and pushing forward with the digital transformation of government processes. These reforms aim to position the country as a hub for innovation and productivity.
Vice President Ulloa also noted that foreign direct investment is reaching unprecedented levels, supporting major development projects and elevating El Salvador’s regional economic influence. “We don’t see ourselves in isolation—we view ourselves as part of a region with vast potential,” he stated. “The eight nations that form SICA (Central American Integration System) represent the fourth-largest economy in Latin America.”
The forum brought together institutions such as CAF (Development Bank of Latin America and the Caribbean), the Central American Bank for Economic Integration (CABEI), and the Chamber of Councilors of the Kingdom of Morocco, as well as experts and private sector leaders. Discussions focused on investment opportunities, global economic shifts, and the strategic cooperation required for long-term, inclusive growth across the region.