ECNETNews, New York, NY, August 22, 2024: Over the past three years, U.S. Vice President Kamala Harris has emerged as a pivotal figure in addressing pressing challenges in Central America and the Caribbean. Her efforts have significantly focused on tackling the underlying causes of migration while enhancing U.S. relations with regional partners. Here is a summary of her impactful initiatives:
- Leading the Comprehensive Strategy for Central American Migration:
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- Appointed in April 2021 to lead initiatives aimed at reducing migration from Guatemala, Honduras, and El Salvador.
- Convened expert groups to develop strategies centered on transparency, economic development, security, and governance.
- Introduced a five-pillar strategy in June 2021 to collaborate with local stakeholders in mitigating migration drivers.
- Secured over $5.2 billion in commitments from various organizations to support investments in the region.
- Oversaw a notable decline in migration from these Central American nations to the U.S. border.
- Enhancing U.S.-Caribbean Relations:
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- Made history as the highest-ranking U.S. official to visit The Bahamas in June 2023, co-hosting the U.S.-Caribbean Leaders Meeting.
- Focused on collaboration concerning climate change, food security, and security matters such as arms trafficking.
- Secured a $100 million U.S. assistance package to address pressing regional challenges, particularly Haiti’s humanitarian crisis.
- Fostering Long-Term Economic Security in Central America and the Caribbean:
- Championed the provision of technical and financial resources to local organizations to stimulate job creation and human capital development.
- Emphasized anti-corruption measures and improved governance to support sustainable economic growth.
- Implementing a “Listen, Act, Follow Up” Strategy:
- Engaged with regional leaders to identify their priorities before formulating strategies.
- Adopted long-term solutions, adjusting approaches as regional conditions evolve.
Vice President Harris’s efforts in Central America and the Caribbean highlight her dedication to addressing multifaceted challenges with thoughtful and adaptable solutions. As she shapes her foreign policy approach ahead of the upcoming presidential race, these experiences provide valuable insight into her potential navigating the global landscape and engaging with these vital regions.
