The United States ambassador to the Dominican Republic, Leah F. Camposstated this Tuesday in Santiago that the economic security and the national security are “two sides of the same coin” and defended a cooperation agenda with the country based on sovereigntyborder control, strengthening trade and attracting investments, within the framework of the annual lunch-conference of the Chamber of Commerce and Production of Santiago
On his first official visit to the call City Heart Since taking office, Campos has stressed the weight of Cibao as one of the productive engines of the country, with an economic fabric supported by manufacturing, free zones, agroindustry, logistics and exports.
In her second speech as ambassador, Francis said that the institutional stabilitysecurity and the rule of law are essential conditions for factories to operate, investments to flow and employment to grow.
National Security Strategy
The diplomat framed her message in the National Security Strategy of the president donald trumpwhich, as he explained, prioritizes the Western Hemisphere, the fight against transnational crime, drug trafficking and money laundering, as well as the strengthening of “reliable” partners in the region.
- In that context, he described the Dominican Republic—and in particular the Cibao— like a strategic ally key for the United States.
Campos emphatically defended the policy of sovereignty and immigration controland appreciated the position of the Dominican Government of not adhering to international initiatives that, in his opinion, promote an “open borders” approach.
When referring to the haitian crisisexpressed concern about its regional impact, but maintained that any solution must combine a humanitarian approach with strong border protection measures.
Economic opportunities in the region
At that point, he welcomed the approval in the House of Representatives of the United States of a three-year extension of commercial programs HOPE/HELP for Haiti, considering that, if implemented correctly, they can contribute to the economic stability of that country, reduce irregular migration pressure and indirectly benefit the Dominican economy, especially the free zones and logistics in the north.
The ambassador also highlighted the opportunities that are opening up for the region with the trends of nearshoring and friend-shoringwhich seek to bring supply chains closer to allied countries. He pointed out that Santiago, La Vega and Puerto Plata are well positioned to attract advanced manufacturingmedical devices, agribusiness and, in the future, even technological components.
Campos recalled that the United States continues to be the main source of foreign direct investment in the Dominican Republic and assured that, under his management, the embassy will continue to promote a economic relationship “practical and not politicized.” He concluded by stating that “America First does not mean America Alone“and that when partners prosper, both countries benefit
