Secretary of State Marco Rubio and Paraguayan Foreign Minister Rubén Ramírez Lezcano met to sign a Status of Forces Agreement (SOFA) between the United States and Paraguay. According to Principal Deputy Spokesperson Tommy Pigott, the agreement sets out the framework for U.S. military and Department of War civilian personnel to operate in Paraguay.
The SOFA is intended to facilitate joint training, humanitarian missions, disaster response efforts, and other security initiatives involving both countries. Secretary Rubio stated, "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." He also described the agreement as one that "strengthens a longstanding partnership and supports our shared priorities."
Both officials expressed confidence that this agreement will enhance sovereignty for both nations while improving cooperation aimed at regional stability and prosperity.