Ecuador’s President Daniel Noboa, who recently won reelection, is eager to strengthen ties with the United States to combat crime in his country. Noboa, at just 37 years old, is Ecuador’s youngest president and has made a name for himself as an outsider in politics. He defeated the socialist candidate Luisa González by an 11-point margin in the presidential runoff held on Sunday. His new term will officially begin on May 24.
Noboa first took office in November 2023, stepping in to finish the term of former President Guillermo Lasso. Initially presenting himself as a center-left leader, Noboa has since focused on addressing gang violence and drug trafficking in Ecuador. He believes that collaboration with the U.S. can bring “real help” to these pressing issues.
In a recent interview, Noboa expressed his openness to the idea of U.S. military support, although he clarified that American troops would not patrol Ecuadorian streets. Instead, he envisions them playing a supportive role in security operations, which would remain under the control of Ecuador’s military and police.
Noboa has previously met with former President Donald Trump and discussed military cooperation in the fight against drug trafficking. Following his reelection, Trump congratulated him on social media, signaling a positive relationship between the two leaders.
Noboa also mentioned that his administration is in talks with the U.S. regarding support for intelligence systems, border protection, and monitoring illegal activities. He believes that now, after the elections, Ecuador is ready to receive substantial aid packages from the U.S.
Currently, Ecuador’s constitution prohibits foreign military bases, a rule established in 2008. However, Noboa has called for constitutional reforms to allow for such bases, indicating a desire for a more robust military partnership with the U.S. Reports suggest that Ecuador is preparing for U.S. forces by constructing a new naval base in Manta, a city where the U.S. previously had a military presence until 2009.
In addition to security issues, Noboa addressed trade relations with the U.S. He noted that Ecuador has lowered tariffs on American cars and machinery to about ten percent, aligning with his goal of tariff reciprocity. Noboa is optimistic that these changes will help Ecuador remain competitive in the region, especially against countries that have benefited from free trade agreements.
As Noboa embarks on his new term, his administration’s focus on security and trade could reshape Ecuador’s relationship with the U.S. and influence the country’s future direction.