The United States and Paraguay formalized a significant military partnership on September 25, 2023, by signing a Status of Forces Agreement (SOFA) in Washington. This agreement allows for the presence and activities of U.S. military and Department of War civilian personnel in Paraguay. U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio and Paraguayan Foreign Minister Rubén Ramírez Lezcano signed the deal during the Paraguayan diplomat’s official visit to the United States.
The SOFA lays the groundwork for U.S. military involvement in various areas, including bilateral and multinational training exercises, humanitarian assistance, and disaster response. During the signing, Secretary Rubio emphasized the importance of this agreement in advancing security and stability across the region, stating that it “opens new doors for our collective efforts.”
The agreement reinforces a longstanding partnership between the two nations, focusing on shared priorities such as combating transnational crime and drug trafficking. Both officials expressed confidence that the SOFA would bolster the sovereignty of both countries while enhancing their cooperation to promote stability and prosperity in South America.
In a statement, the State Department highlighted the commitment of the United States to closely coordinate with Paraguay on regional security, recognizing Paraguay’s growing role as a regional leader. Rubio remarked that the agreement is not solely about security; it aims to deepen cooperation in economic matters as well. He noted that Paraguay has significant potential for economic growth, and the United States is eager to partner with it, stating, “There’s a lot of good things happening in Paraguay.”
Rubio described transnational terrorist organizations as a critical threat in the hemisphere, noting that such groups pose both ideological and financial challenges to regional stability. He stressed the need for strong partnerships to confront these threats while respecting the sovereignty of partner nations.
The SOFA formalizes an existing partnership between the United States and Paraguay, authorizing both nations to train together, expedite the transfer of security equipment, and share intelligence in real time. This framework is intended to enhance operational effectiveness in addressing any contingencies that may arise.
Minister Ramírez Lezcano highlighted the historical friendship between Paraguay and the United States, noting that their diplomatic relations span over 160 years. He reaffirmed Paraguay’s commitment to fighting terrorism and transnational criminal organizations. He stated, “We are very committed to freedom, human rights, and the rule of law.”
The Paraguayan Foreign Minister added that the agreement will strengthen not only security cooperation but also collaborative efforts to enhance the capabilities of Paraguay’s security forces. He expressed optimism that the partnership would lead to improved strategies for security and development.
In addition to the SOFA, Ramírez Lezcano and Secretary Rubio discussed various topics, including the delivery of radars to enhance national airspace security. They also reviewed the Safe Third Country Agreement, further solidifying the collaboration between the two nations in addressing regional challenges.
This agreement marks a pivotal moment in U.S.-Paraguay relations, setting the stage for enhanced cooperation on security, economic development, and collective efforts to combat pressing threats in the region.
