The United States and Paraguay have reached a groundbreaking agreement allowing asylum seekers on American soil to be transferred to Paraguay for the evaluation of their protection claims. This initiative aims to curb illegal immigration, bolster security, and prevent the exploitation of the asylum system, according to official sources.
Secretary of State Marco Rubio announced on X, "Trump will no longer allow the U.S. asylum system to be abused. Today’s signing of a Safe Third Country Agreement with Paraguay enables asylum seekers in the United States to file their protection claims in Paraguay." He emphasized that this commitment will prevent the misuse of the American immigration system and help create a "safer hemisphere" with a key ally like Paraguayan President Santiago Peña.
The State Department highlighted on X that this form of cooperation demonstrates the capability of both countries to work together in preventing illegal migration, which is regarded as a national security threat. According to EFE, the memorandum of understanding was signed in Washington by Rubio and Paraguayan Foreign Minister Rubén Ramírez Lezcano, with the involvement of the Department of Homeland Security.
Rubio hailed the day as "a great opportunity to reaffirm ties" and noted that irregular immigration is a shared concern for both governments. Ramírez Lezcano pointed out that the agreement transcends immigration policy, extending into areas such as security, trade, and investments. He added that the bilateral relationship is founded on shared values like democracy, freedom, human rights, and the rule of law.
Deputy Secretary of Homeland Security Troy Edgar stated that this move is pivotal in the Trump Administration's plans for allied countries to collaborate in reducing irregular entries into the United States. He also remarked that the asylum system had been previously abused and that agreements like this enable prioritization of resources for those truly in need of protection.
Understanding the U.S.-Paraguay Asylum Agreement
What is the main objective of the U.S.-Paraguay asylum agreement?
The primary aim of the agreement is to curb illegal immigration, enhance security, and prevent the abuse of the U.S. asylum system by evaluating asylum claims in Paraguay instead.
Who signed the agreement on behalf of the United States and Paraguay?
The agreement was signed in Washington by U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio and Paraguayan Foreign Minister Rubén Ramírez Lezcano, with the participation of the Department of Homeland Security.
How does the agreement impact the U.S. immigration system?
The agreement is expected to prevent the misuse of the U.S. immigration system by transferring asylum seekers to Paraguay for claim evaluation, thereby allowing the U.S. to focus resources on genuine cases.