“Trump’s Central America Plan Will Not Increase Militarization, Says Honduras President” – Reuters

By Dion Rabouin

The Trump administration’s initiative to address violence and poverty in Central America will not result in increased militarization in Honduras, according to President Juan Orlando Hernandez during a recent interview.

The plan, crafted by U.S. President Donald Trump’s chief of staff John Kelly during his tenure as secretary of Homeland Security, aims to strengthen Central America through funding development projects and encouraging Mexico to take a more active role in curbing immigration from the region.

Concerns have been raised by non-governmental organizations and think tanks that this initiative, branded as a means to enhance economic growth in Central America, might lead to heightened militarization in a region plagued by violence, coups, and gang-related killings.

Though Central America remains one of the most dangerous areas globally, the murder rate in Honduras has decreased, dropping to 59 homicides per 100,000 people last year from 90.4 in 2012.

Despite this decline, Hernandez noted that the Trump administration has not increased military support, apart from providing police training and a slight increase in assistance from USAID.

Nonetheless, Hernandez maintains that relations between the United States and Honduras are “probably better than ever.” He expressed optimism that this improved partnership will enhance investment and security in the Central American region.

“We are closer than before,” Hernandez stated. “It’s really important for them what’s happening in Central America. We are collaborating on economic growth, which encompasses investment and job creation, as well as security.”

Hernandez emphasized that the security situation in Honduras is a crucial concern for the U.S., even if many Americans may not fully recognize it.

“We have a saying in Honduras: ‘If the people in Washington realize that the lack of security and preparedness in Central America poses a significant danger to the U.S., they must work alongside us to foster a region of prosperity, investment, and opportunities,'” he explained. “This will be one of the best investments for the American people, benefitting both their interests and ours.”

Additionally, Hernandez stated that Honduras will continue to collaborate with the International Monetary Fund, contingent on his government winning the upcoming election. The IMF has recently completed a review mission in the country.