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El Salvador Joins Central America Big Day to Celebrate Birdwatching Diversity.
El Salvador is set to participate in the Central America Big Day on March 15, an event that highlights the region’s rich birdwatching opportunities. Birdwatchers from Central America and the Dominican Republic will gather at 100 designated sites to observe and document both migratory and endemic bird species.
The Central American Tourism Promotion Agency (CATA) has invited enthusiasts to join this full-day birdwatching event, emphasizing the importance of observing birds in their natural habitats without disturbing their behavior. This initiative aligns with the two annual Global Big Day events held internationally in May and October. However, Central America holds its own event in March, as many migratory species are still in the region before heading north, while local species remain highly active.
Recognized as a global birding paradise, Central America boasts tropical forests, wetlands, and coastal regions that provide ideal habitats for a vast array of bird species. According to CATA, the Central America Big Day is not just a recreational event but also a form of citizen science, contributing valuable data for conservation studies that help protect these habitats.
Additionally, birdwatching tourism presents significant opportunities for local communities, fostering sustainable development through eco-tourism.
«This initiative aims to promote birdwatching, sustainable tourism, and respect for biodiversity in the region. Participants will have access to up to 100 birdwatching sites across Central America and the Dominican Republic,» stated CATA Secretary General Boris Iraheta.
Participants can record their sightings on the platform eBird and share them through CATA Central America’s account, creating a vibrant showcase of the region’s extraordinary avian diversity.
https://twitter.com/CATA_AgenciaCA/status/1900600986533843425
Photos taken by courtesy of @ESATravelSV.
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Óscar Meza on El Salvador: Enjoying My Native Surf City and Its Beauty.
El Salvador continues to establish itself as a top destination for tourists, particularly those eager to explore its rich culture through gastronomy.
Mexican YouTuber Óscar Meza, widely known on social media as «La Capital,» recently visited El Salvador and praised its traditional cuisine. During his journey across the country, Meza showcased the depth and flavor of Salvadoran dishes, featuring iconic delicacies such as pupusas, fresh seafood, and yuca con chicharrón (cassava with pork rinds).
The popular content creator, who boasts a massive social media following, explored beyond the nation’s most famous dishes to highlight its culinary diversity. In coastal areas, he sampled fresh seafood from local restaurants, immersing himself in the region’s unique flavors and traditions.
«What impressed me most about El Salvador was the variety and authenticity of its cuisine. The freshness of the seafood and the tradition of pupusas are just a few examples of what makes the country unique,» Meza shared on his social media platforms, where he documented his experience for thousands of followers.
Thanks to visits and content from influential figures like Meza, El Salvador continues to solidify its reputation as a must-visit destination, particularly for travelers eager to experience its vibrant culinary heritage.
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La Unión Port Revitalization: A Game Changer for El Salvador’s Economy.
El Salvador is set to receive the largest private investment in its history, as Turkish company Yilport Holding Inc. commits $1.615 billion to the Pacific Port Union project, which includes the revitalization of the La Unión port. This investment marks a significant milestone in the country’s economic development and strengthens its position as a key logistics hub in Central America.
The government of President Nayib Bukele has prioritized the eastern region’s economic growth, and the modernization of the La Unión port is a crucial step in achieving this goal. The arrival of the second car carrier vessel at the port signals progress in reactivating this maritime terminal. “This partnership with Yilport Holding Inc. will transform La Unión into one of the strongest and most efficient port terminals in the region,” stated an official government source.
The arrival of the Glovis Spirit, a large car carrier vessel, demonstrates the increasing potential of the port. “Thanks to the vision of President Bukele’s administration, El Salvador is creating the conditions necessary for economic development,” government representatives emphasized.
Yilport Holding Inc. has recognized La Unión’s strategic location and potential, leading to a partnership that aims to establish the port as a leading logistics center in the region. This initiative aligns with the third phase of the government’s economic plan, which focuses on strengthening the country’s logistics infrastructure.
With this historic investment and growing international partnerships, El Salvador is positioning itself as a key player in global trade, opening doors for further economic expansion and regional connectivity.
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El Salvador Among Countries Boosting Poland’s Tourism Growth.
Poland’s strategic position in Central Europe and its visa-free agreements with 93 countries, including El Salvador, Canada, Mexico, the U.S., Bahamas, Guatemala, Honduras, and Panama, have significantly boosted its tourism sector. With a rich historical legacy and a resilient economy, Poland has become an increasingly attractive destination for travelers worldwide.
The country’s history, marked by medieval kingdoms, foreign invasions, and the struggle for independence, continues to draw visitors fascinated by its cultural depth. International tourist arrivals are projected to rise by 11.86% between 2024 and 2029, reaching approximately 92.36 million visitors. The inclusion of El Salvador and other Latin American nations in Poland’s visa-free program has further encouraged travel and cultural exchange, making it easier for visitors to explore Poland’s castles, cities, and natural landscapes.
Poland’s economy has shown remarkable resilience, with its GDP expected to reach 1,063.49 billion U.S. dollars by 2029. Tourism plays a crucial role in this growth, supported by an expanding air travel network, including major airlines such as LOT Polish Airlines, Ryanair, and Lufthansa. TTW Editor Anup Kumar Keshan highlighted Poland’s growing appeal, stating, “Poland’s role as a cultural and economic crossroads is vital. The boost from visa-free travel agreements, including those with El Salvador, reflects the nation’s increasing global influence.”
With strong economic foundations, historical significance, and improved travel access, Poland continues to establish itself as a premier destination, welcoming millions of visitors from around the world.
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New SERTRACEN Branch Opens in Usulután.
SERTRACEN has inaugurated a new branch in Usulután, enhancing access to essential vehicle and driver services. The new office is located at the Mall del Sol Shopping Center, stores 13-15, km 122 of the Usulután bypass.
Business Hours:
- Monday to Friday: 8:00 a.m. – 4:00 p.m.
- Saturday: 8:00 a.m. – 12:00 p.m.
Services Available:
✅ Driver’s License Management: First-time applications, renewals, replacements, exchanges, and homologations.
✅ Online delivery of renewed driver’s licenses.
✅ In-person renewal of vehicle registration cards.
✅ Online delivery of revalidated vehicle registration cards.
✅ Reception of documentation for online vehicle procedures.
✅ Submission of vehicle transfers, engine replacements, modifications, and other Public Registry of Motor Vehicles procedures.This new branch offers greater convenience and efficiency for residents, streamlining the process of completing essential vehicle-related tasks. Visit us and experience faster, hassle-free service!
https://twitter.com/ObrasPublicasSV/status/1900261150731710745
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El Salvador and Italy Strengthen Bilateral Ties.
El Salvador and Italy have reinforced their diplomatic, economic, and cooperative relations during the Third Meeting of Bilateral Consultations. The high-level discussions focused on key areas such as agribusiness, textiles, renewable energy, and economic development.
El Salvador had the honor of welcoming Italian Undersecretary of State for Foreign Affairs, Giorgio Silli, whose leadership, commitment, and openness to dialogue were greatly appreciated. Both delegations worked on a roadmap to further strengthen ties of friendship and collaboration, ensuring mutual benefits for both nations.
This meeting marks a significant step forward in enhancing bilateral cooperation, paving the way for new opportunities that will foster economic growth and development in both countries.
https://twitter.com/CancillerAleHT/status/1900199503015157833
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El Salvador Strengthens Preventive Measures Ahead of Rainy Season.
El Salvador has intensified its preventive efforts to mitigate risks associated with the upcoming rainy season, aiming to avoid critical situations like the severe flooding experienced in previous years.
Luis Alonso Amaya, director of Civil Protection, highlighted that the country has undergone a significant shift in its approach to the rainy season over the past five years, prioritizing prevention and risk reduction before the onset of winter.
According to Amaya, El Salvador now has pre-equipped shelters and strategically distributed humanitarian aid across the country’s four regions. Additionally, a substantial investment has been made in machinery to address geological risks and reduce vulnerability in disaster-prone areas.
“We are now focused on having the necessary resources to respond swiftly, but we are not waiting for winter to arrive,” he stated. He also mentioned that mitigation efforts have already begun, including cleaning drainage systems and ravines, as well as trimming trees to prevent incidents caused by the first storms and potential strong winds.
These preventive measures aim to avert critical scenarios similar to those seen in previous years when various regions of the country faced severe flooding.
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Job Opportunities Abroad: Over 11,000 Salvadorans Secure Temporary Work in the U.S. and Canada.
El Salvador’s labor migration program has enabled more than 11,000 Salvadorans to travel to the United States and Canada for temporary employment, according to the Ministry of Labor and Social Welfare (MTPS).
Labor Minister Rolando Castro highlighted that the program initially started with the United States in 2019. However, it gained significant momentum after the COVID-19 pandemic and, since 2021, has been managed by the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and the United States.
“Between Canada and the United States, no fewer than 11,000 people have benefited from this program. We are talking about the first group we sent to the United States and those who have gone to Canada,” Castro stated.
Canada was added to the program in 2021, and in December 2023, Costa Rica also joined as a migration partner. In February 2024, Castro confirmed that between 6,000 and 7,000 workers had been sent specifically to the United States, meaning that the remaining 4,000 to 5,000 beneficiaries traveled to Canada.
The labor minister emphasized that the initiative has fostered development in El Salvador and improved the lives of those who traveled to Canada under the program. He also denied that USAID provided financial support to launch the initiative, stating that the ministry operates “with the limited resources” available.
Looking ahead, the MTPS announced that the first group of workers will depart for Europe next week. Additionally, more European countries could be incorporated into the program during the first half of this year.
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South Korea Supports the Growth of 107 Salvadoran Entrepreneurs.
The Government of El Salvador, recognizing micro and small businesses as key drivers of the national economy, has successfully completed the third edition of an entrepreneurial training program with the support of South Korea.
Led by the National Commission for Micro and Small Enterprises (CONAMYPE) and financially backed by the Korea International Cooperation Agency (KOICA), this initiative aims to strengthen business projects through practical training. Additional support came from the Ministry of Foreign Affairs via the El Salvador Agency for Cooperation (ESCO), the Ministry of Tourism, and the United Nations Development Program (UNDP).
A total of 107 entrepreneurs from sectors such as agroindustry, textiles, cosmetics, and technology participated in the program, gaining insights into business models, market strategies, management, planning, and innovation.
«This moment symbolizes Korea’s firm commitment to the economic and inclusive development of El Salvador. Through this training process, which began in October 2024, we have provided a solid incubation and training platform that will have a lasting and significant impact,» said Kanghee Kim, Deputy Director of KOICA in El Salvador.
CONAMYPE President Paul Stainer highlighted the vital role of micro and small businesses, noting that they contribute 42% of the country’s GDP and employ approximately 2.5 million people. He also emphasized that participants will have access to seed capital, technical advice, and other resources to further strengthen their businesses.
Entrepreneurs who completed the program praised the initiative. «This support has been key to enhancing our ideas and strengthening our capabilities,» said Virginia de Castro, a tourism entrepreneur. Others, like hostel operator Ana Gonzáles and artisanal wine producer Mario Peralta, emphasized how the training provided essential business skills and new growth opportunities.
The closing ceremony was attended by the Minister of Tourism, Morena Valdéz, and representatives from UNDP.
For more information, contact:
National Commission for Micro and Small Enterprises (CONAMYPE) -
El Salvador Intensifies Conservation Efforts for Lake Ilopango.
The Ministry of Environment and Natural Resources (MARN) has ramped up conservation efforts for Lake Ilopango, implementing a series of actions to protect this vital ecosystem.
Authorities have intensified technical inspections, environmental education programs, cleanup campaigns, and monitoring to control activities that impact the lake’s condition. Technical teams have visited establishments in the area to promote sustainable practices and proper waste management.
«In addition, environmental inspections in restaurants and businesses have been strengthened to verify compliance with environmental regulations,» MARN stated. Cleanup campaigns, supported by volunteers, local authorities, and the private sector, have removed tons of waste affecting the lake’s environmental quality.
Lake Ilopango, a key ecosystem for the San Salvador metropolitan area and an active volcano, plays a crucial role in the country’s natural landscape. Authorities emphasize that its conservation is of vital importance for ecological balance and sustainability.
For more information, contact:
Ministry of Environment and Natural Resources (MARN)