The United States and Ecuador have formalized a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) aimed at enhancing security collaboration. The agreement, signed on July 19, 2023, at the United States Department of Defense headquarters, outlines a strategy to bolster the security sector in Ecuador through capacity development projects prioritized by both nations.
"The United States and Ecuador signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) yesterday at the headquarters of the United States Department of Defense," confirming their commitment to shared security objectives. These objectives will guide the development of specific projects based on priorities set by both governments.
Key figures present at the signing ceremony included General Laura Richardson, Commander of the United States Southern Command; Daniel Erickson, Assistant Secretary of Defense; Mira Resnick, Assistant Secretary for Regional Security of the Department of State; Luis Lara, Minister of Defense for Ecuador; and Ivonne Baki, Ecuadorian Ambassador to the United States. Other authorities from both countries also attended.
The MOU focuses on four main areas: information exchange, capacity building for the Ecuadorian Armed Forces, training and qualification initiatives, and acquiring essential resources. While it establishes a framework for technical collaboration and sharing best practices and lessons learned, it does not specify any financial commitments.
"This cooperation agreement establishes a roadmap to implement security and defense capacity development projects based on the priority determined by both governments," highlighting that no specific economic allocation is included.