The United States and Uruguay held their second Annual Bilateral Inter-Ministerial Dialogue in Washington, D.C., on February 15, 2024. The meeting was attended by Assistant Secretary of State for Western Hemisphere Affairs Brian A. Nichols and a U.S. delegation from six federal departments and agencies, along with Foreign Minister Omar Paganini and the Uruguayan delegation.
Both countries agreed that innovation and shared goals define their relationship and the opportunities ahead. The dialogue built on the June 2023 meeting between President Biden and President Lacalle Pou, reaffirming commitments to democratic governance, regional integration, inclusive economic growth, and expanding opportunity through sustainable trade and investment.
Discussions focused on how both economies work together to create jobs, improve living standards, and develop new industries. The U.S. delegation recognized Uruguay’s leadership in the Americas Partnership for Economic Prosperity, particularly its role in the Uruguay Innovation Hub program, start-up accelerator initiatives, and green hydrogen projects. The Uruguayan side thanked the United States for hosting the Americas Partnership Leaders’ Summit at the White House and highlighted its efforts to lead an angel investor network.
Uruguay announced its signing of the Artemis Accords during the meeting. The United States agreed to support Uruguay as it explores civilian and commercial space industries. Both nations also reaffirmed their commitment to the Partnership for Atlantic Cooperation, focusing on economic development, environmental protection, and scientific exchange.
The delegations discussed ways to further improve bilateral trade and investment conditions. They agreed to expedite resolution of ongoing reviews of agricultural sanitary processes. Progress was noted toward a Trilateral Cooperation agreement between USAID and Uruguay’s International Cooperation Agency (AUCI) for development projects in third countries within the region, with plans to finalize a Memorandum of Understanding soon. The United States acknowledged Uruguay’s request for assistance with a supply of sterile flies—a component of pest control programs—and committed to reevaluating this request while exploring other options for timely implementation.
Security cooperation was another topic addressed during the dialogue. Both sides agreed to strengthen collaboration against transnational crime and drug trafficking through interdiction efforts, law enforcement training, drug treatment programs, and demand reduction strategies. They also discussed securing regional support for the Multinational Security Support Mission to Haiti.
A modernized Memorandum of Understanding was signed for the U.S.-Uruguay Fulbright Program that establishes stable annual funding from both countries. The United States noted Uruguay’s progress toward eligibility for the Visa Waiver Program and reiterated its support for these efforts. Additionally, both delegations celebrated signing a joint statement on Global Entry that commits them to facilitating Uruguay’s prompt accession to this program.
The United States recognized Uruguay’s international leadership through its votes at the United Nations; its criticism of Russia’s actions in Ukraine; and its support for electoral agreements aimed at restoring democracy in Venezuela. The Uruguayan delegation expressed gratitude for U.S hospitality during this year’s dialogue.
Both sides affirmed their intention to continue working closely together at bilateral, regional, and international levels. The Uruguayan delegation invited representatives from the United States to attend next year’s annual meeting in Uruguay.