Paraguay and U.S. Forge Military Agreement to Enhance Security

The United States and Paraguay have signed a significant Status of Forces Agreement (SOFA), allowing the presence of U.S. military and civilian personnel in Paraguay. This landmark agreement was formalized on March 4, 2024, during Paraguayan Foreign Minister Rubén Ramírez Lezcano’s visit to Washington. U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio and Minister Ramírez Lezcano endorsed the pact as part of their shared commitment to combat transnational crime and drug trafficking.

The SOFA establishes a comprehensive framework for U.S. military activities in Paraguay, which will include bilateral and multinational training, humanitarian assistance, disaster response, and collaboration on security interests. In his remarks, Secretary Rubio expressed that the agreement “opens new doors for our collective efforts to advance security and stability in our hemisphere.”

Both officials emphasized that the SOFA will reinforce a long-standing partnership, supporting joint priorities and enhancing both nations’ sovereignty. The agreement is expected to bolster cooperation and contribute to greater stability and prosperity in the region. Rubio remarked that Paraguay is one of America’s strongest allies, underscoring the need for future collaboration that extends beyond security issues.

Rubio highlighted the significance of economic cooperation, stating, “There’s a lot of good things happening in Paraguay, a tremendous potential to make Paraguay a richer country.”

A focus of the agreement includes addressing the threats posed by transnational terrorist organizations, which Rubio described as the most pressing challenge in the hemisphere. He noted that these groups not only pose ideological threats but also economic ones that jeopardize regional stability. “We need strong partners in the region that understand that that’s the biggest threat in our hemisphere,” he said.

Additionally, the agreement will enable both countries to formalize existing partnerships, allowing for enhanced military training, expedited transfers of security equipment, and real-time intelligence sharing. This cooperation aims to ensure readiness in times of need and for potential contingencies.

Paraguayan Foreign Minister Ramírez Lezcano echoed Rubio’s sentiments during the signing ceremony, affirming Paraguay’s commitment to combat terrorism and transnational criminal organizations. He noted that the agreement would not only strengthen security cooperation but also promote development strategies for national security forces. “Fighting against terrorism is allowing our people to have a better life and freedom,” he stated.

The Paraguayan Foreign Ministry detailed discussions around the delivery of radars to cover national airspace and reviewed the Safe Third Country Agreement. Minister Ramírez Lezcano was accompanied by Defense Minister Óscar González in meetings with U.S. Deputy Assistant Secretary of War Joseph Humire, where they addressed shared challenges facing the region.

This agreement marks a pivotal moment in U.S.-Paraguayan relations, reflecting both nations’ dedication to mutual security interests and stability in South America.