Tag: Bolivia

Bolivia and US sign $20 million drug trafficking cooperation deal New agreement to fight drug networks Bolivia has agreed a new security partnership with the United States worth up to $20 million. The funding will support training and equipment for Bolivian forces working against drug trafficking and organised crime. The deal marks a clear shift in relations between the two countries after nearly two decades of limited cooperation. Shift in Bolivia US relations Relations changed significantly after former President Evo Morales removed the US Drug Enforcement Administration from Bolivia 18 years ago. Bolivia is still one of the world’s main producers of coca leaves, which are used to make cocaine. Under President Rodrigo Paz, ties with Washington are now improving. Bolivia has also joined the US led “Shield of the Americas” security initiative focused on regional crime and drug networks. Training and security support The US embassy confirmed it will work closely with Bolivia to provide training, equipment, and wider support for law enforcement. The Bolivian foreign ministry said the goal is to strengthen institutions responsible for public security, investigations, and tackling organised crime. The agreement was signed in La Paz shortly after Bolivia appointed Ernesto Justiniano as defence minister, who previously served as the country’s drug czar. Regional cooperation and political support Earlier this year, President Paz attended the first Shield of the Americas summit in Florida, hosted by US President Donald Trump, along with other regional leaders. The alliance has publicly supported Paz during recent political unrest in Bolivia. In May, member countries expressed concern over protests and road blockades, saying they aimed to destabilise the elected government.
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Bolivia and US sign $20 million drug trafficking cooperation deal

New agreement to fight drug networks Bolivia has agreed a new security…

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