Secretary Rubio’s Meeting with Paraguay Foreign Minister Ramírez

The below is attributable to Principal Deputy Spokesperson Tommy Pigott: 

Secretary of State Marco Rubio met today with Paraguayan Foreign Minister Rubén Ramírez Lezcano to sign a Status of Forces Agreement (SOFA) between the United States and Paraguay.  The historic agreement establishes a clear framework for the presence and activities of U.S. military and Department of War civilian personnel in Paraguay, facilitating bilateral and multinational training, humanitarian assistance, disaster response, and other shared security interests.  Secretary Rubio emphasized that the SOFA reflects the United States’ commitment to coordinate closely with Paraguay on regional security and Paraguay’s growing importance as a regional leader and champion for security in our Hemisphere.  The agreement strengthens a longstanding partnership and supports our shared priorities.  Both officials expressed confidence that the agreement will strengthen both countries’ sovereignty and enhance our cooperation for greater stability and prosperity in the region.