The agreement is supported by international frameworks, including the United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea and guidelines established by the Food and Agriculture Organization.

Authorities said the amendment will strengthen maritime patrol operations in Costa Rican waters and improve protection for the country’s marine resources.

“By signing this agreement, we are building on the strong foundation established in 1998, when the United States and Costa Rica signed the first agreement to intercept illicit maritime drug trafficking,” Ambassador Hildebrand said. “This agreement will allow U.S. Coast Guard patrols, which are primarily dedicated to counternarcotics cooperation, to expand their operations to protect Costa Rica’s fishing resources from illegal exploitation.”

Officials said the Joint Sea Patrol Treaty has played a key role in combating international drug trafficking and related criminal organizations.

“Today we are taking another step forward by signing a protocol that expands this agreement to combat illegal, unreported and unregulated fishing, a threat that recognizes no borders,” Minister André noted.

According to the Ministry, the amendment reaffirms both countries’ commitment to international law, the protection of marine ecosystems and stronger maritime security, while promoting more effective cooperation against illegal fishing and other illicit activities at sea.

Costa Rica’s marine territory covers approximately 227,000 square miles, far larger than its 19,700 square miles of land area. The country is home to an estimated 3.5% of the world’s marine species.

The Ministry of Foreign Affairs oversees the nation’s diplomatic missions and foreign policy.

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