Ecuador seeks a foreign military presence to address criminal activity.
U.S. Secretary of Homeland Security Kristi Noem recently toured a former U.S. military base in Manta, Ecuador, with Ecuadorian President Daniel Noboa. The tour was to assess whether the existing building could still serve as a potential base, although a formal agreement has yet to be made. A site in the city of Salina is also being considered by the two countries.
To change a rule set in 2008, prohibiting foreign military presence in Ecuador, President Noboa’s administration will be seeking constitutional reform, which will be put to a referendum on November 16th. His administration hopes that foreign military presence will help to reduce the rise in criminal activity, trafficking across borders, and homicides.
On Secretary Noem’s previous visit to Ecuador, the two nations issued a memorandum of understanding (MOU) for a law enforcement liaison exchange program between U.S. Customs and Border Protection and the National Police Department of Ecuador.
As the Lord Leads, Pray with Us…
- For Secretary Noem to seek God’s guidance as she heads the Department of Homeland Security.
- For U.S. officials as they consider the possibility of reopening the military base in Ecuador.
Sources: UPI New, Department of Homeland Security
