The European Union and five Central American countries — Panama, Costa Rica, Honduras, El Salvador, and Guatemala — agreed on 13 July 2026 to strengthen cooperation on security, sustainable development, and global challenges, during the first Political and Cooperation Association Committee meeting in Brussels. The joint press release, issued by the EEAS, outlines commitments to democratic governance, human rights, regional stability, and joint responses to migration, climate change, and transnational crime.
The meeting marked the first formal gathering under the EU-Central America Association Agreement since the first Association Council. The parties welcomed the inaugural meeting of the Sub-Committee on Cooperation, held on 27 May 2026 in El Salvador and on 12 June 2026 virtually. They emphasized exploring technical cooperation projects in green, digital, and just transitions, sustainable economic integration, disaster risk management, and public-private partnerships, complementing the Global Gateway Investment Agenda.
On security, the parties agreed to reinforce cooperation against organized crime and other transnational threats, building on the EU-LAC Citizen Security Alliance. They also stressed the importance of maritime security and international maritime transport under international law. In the context of the EU-LAC Digital Alliance, they highlighted scaling up investments in clean energy and secure digital connectivity, particularly in remote areas, and advancing sustainable transport, mobility, and the circular economy.
Geopolitically, the parties expressed deep concern over Russia's war of aggression against Ukraine and called for a just, comprehensive, and lasting peace in line with the UN Charter. They reaffirmed their commitment to UN reform and multilateral cooperation, and looked forward to the 2027 EU-CELAC Summit. The second Association Council is scheduled for 2027 in Central America.
The agreement impacts several stakeholders. EU and Central American businesses may benefit from new public-private partnerships and investment in clean energy and digital infrastructure, potentially opening markets and reducing operational costs. National authorities in the five Central American countries will need to align with EU cooperation frameworks and implement joint security measures, which may require administrative capacity building. EU taxpayers indirectly fund Global Gateway projects, with potential returns from enhanced regional stability and trade. Civil society in both regions could see improved disaster risk management and inclusive development, though the emphasis on public-private partnerships may raise concerns about privatization of public services.
Overall, the meeting reinforces the EU's strategic engagement with Central America, balancing development cooperation with geopolitical alignment on Ukraine and multilateralism.