The following is attributable to Spokesperson Clayton M. McCleskey:

United States Agency for International Development (USAID) Administrator Mark Green met on Wednesday with President Jimmy Morales of Guatemala. Administrator Green congratulated President Morales on Guatemala's efforts to combat crime and violence. The President thanked the United States for its support to improve citizen security in Guatemala, which has contributed to an overall reduction in the national homicide rate.

Administrator Green urged President Morales to continue the fight against corruption and impunity in Guatemala, a key condition for continued U.S. assistance.

Citing the shared values and close relationship between the two countries, Administrator Green reiterated USAID's commitment to helping the Government of Guatemala promote good governance and prosperity, and advance security for all Guatemalans. Under the U.S. Strategy for Central America, USAID supports Guatemalan self-reliance by collaborating closely with the Government of Guatemala to strengthen security and justice for its citizens, root out corruption, and increase economic growth and social development in the Western Highlands. These programs advance U.S. national security and prosperity by addressing the root causes of migration, and disrupting the activities of transnational criminal organizations.