On April 1, 2025, President Donald Trump extended an invitation to El Salvador’s President Nayib Bukele for an official working visit at the White House, scheduled for April 14. The invitation underscores the strengthening partnership between the United States and El Salvador, particularly in addressing illegal immigration and transnational crime.
In the letter shared by President Bukele on social media platform X, President Trump expressed gratitude for El Salvador’s support in combating illegal immigration. He specifically acknowledged Bukele’s cooperation in detaining suspected gang members deported from the U.S., including individuals affiliated with the Tren de Aragua and MS-13 gangs—organizations designated as Foreign Terrorist Organizations. Since the initiation of a $6 million agreement between the two countries, approximately 250 suspected gang members have been transferred to El Salvador’s Terrorism Confinement Center (CECOT). Footage released by Bukele showed these individuals being processed into the facility.
The upcoming meeting aims to discuss further collaboration on border security, criminal repatriation, and other mutual interests. The White House confirmed the invitation, emphasizing the importance of the bilateral relationship.
This visit marks a significant step in U.S.-El Salvador relations, highlighting joint efforts to enhance regional security and address challenges posed by organized crime.