The European Union and Costa Rica signed a cooperation agreement for more than $14.9 million.

According to the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, this cooperation fund will be used in decarbonization programs, including electric transport, renewable energy and green bonds. In addition to digitization and innovation projects. It also includes programs for refugees and migration.

The agreement was signed by Jutta Urpilainen, Commissioner for International Partnerships of the European Commission and Dr. Arnoldo André, Minister of Foreign Affairs.

 

Costa Rica has focused on being considered as an asset of Humanitarian Aid to be able to face the various migratory crises that the country has been experiencing for several years. This has created strong pressure on the social services of health and education, authorities said.

The country is home to a diverse immigrant population. Over the years, people from various countries have chosen to live and work in Costa Rica, contributing to the country's cultural, economic, and social fabric.  

Nicaraguans are the largest immigrant group in Costa Rica. Thousands have migrated to Costa Rica in search of better economic opportunities. They work in sectors such as agriculture, construction, domestic services, and tourism. The Nicaraguan community in Costa Rica has had a significant impact on the country's labor force and economy.

Apart from Nicaraguans, there are immigrants from other Central American countries, such as Honduras, El Salvador, and Guatemala. These individuals often face similar circumstances as Nicaraguans, seeking better economic conditions and stability.

Costa Rica also attracts immigrants from North America and Europe. Many retirees from the United States, Canada, and European countries choose the country as their retirement destination due to its pleasant climate, natural beauty, and affordable cost of living. Some of them also invest in tourism-related businesses.

The country is home to a small but significant Chinese immigrant community, primarily consisting of individuals of Chinese descent from Taiwan. 

Additionally, there is a small population of Middle Eastern immigrants, including people from Lebanon, Syria, and Palestine, who have established businesses in Costa Rica.

In recent years, there has been an increase in the number of immigrants from Colombia and Venezuela. Many Venezuelans have sought refuge in Costa Rica due to the political and economic crisis in their home country. Colombians, on the other hand, often migrate for various reasons, including economic opportunities and to escape violence.

Costa Rica has a small but notable population of immigrants from Africa and the Caribbean. This includes individuals from countries like Jamaica, Haiti, and various African nations. They have contributed to the cultural diversity of Costa Rica, particularly through music, cuisine, and other cultural expressions.

It's important to note that while immigrants make valuable contributions to Costa Rican society, they may also face challenges such as language barriers or limited access to certain services. 

However, in February Costa Rica was included on the blacklist of the European Union (EU). The blacklist is also known as the EU list of non-cooperative jurisdictions for tax purposes. The list is part of the EU’s work to fight tax evasion and avoidance.

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