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 digital connectivity, during the first Political and Cooperation Association Committee meeting in Brussels. The parties reaffirmed their commitment to democratic governance, human rights, and regional stability, while addressing global challenges such as migration, security, and climate change. Discussions also covered UN reform, multilateral cooperation, and preparations for the 2027 EU-CELAC Summit.
The meeting built on the first meeting of the Sub-Committee on Cooperation under the EU-Central American Agreement, held on 27 May 2026 in El Salvador and on 12 June 2026 virtually. The parties emphasized the need to explore technical cooperation projects in green, digital, and just transitions, sustainable economic integration, peaceful development, and disaster risk management, including through public-private partnerships. They also highlighted the EU-LAC Digital Alliance and efforts to strengthen the Regional Electricity Market as key to sustainable growth and regional economic integration.
Security was recognised as an increasingly important area for reinforced cooperation, including under the EU-LAC Citizen Security Alliance. The parties agreed to strengthen cooperation against organised crime and other transnational threats, and reaffirmed the importance of maritime security and international maritime transport in accordance with international law. On geopolitical issues, they expressed deep concern over Russia's war of aggression against Ukraine and called for a just and lasting peace respecting the UN Charter.
The parties looked forward to the second Association Council, to be held in Central America in 2027, as agreed at the first Association Council. The joint press release was issued by the EEAS Press Team on behalf of the EU and the five participating Central American countries; Nicaragua did not join the statement.
The agreement impacts several stakeholders. EU and Central American businesses stand to benefit from enhanced economic integration and investment opportunities under the Global Gateway Investment Agenda, particularly in clean energy and digital infrastructure. National authorities in the five Central American countries will gain access to EU technical cooperation and security partnerships, but may face administrative burdens in aligning with EU standards. EU taxpayers fund the cooperation projects, with potential returns through increased trade and stability. Civil society in both regions could see improved disaster risk management and inclusive development, though the emphasis on public-private partnerships may shift some priorities toward commercial interests.