PRESS RELEASE : UK donates security equipment to Ecuador on new Minister’s first visit [August 2024]
The press release issued by the Foreign Office on 6 August 2024.
The UK will donate essential security equipment for Ecuador’s fight against organised crime as part of the new British Minister for Latin America’s first official overseas visit.
Baroness Chapman met senior members of the Ecuadorean Cabinet to discuss how the UK and Ecuador can deepen security co-operation.
They also signed a double-taxation agreement between the UK and Ecuador – removing tax barriers to doing business in both countries, boosting growth, trade and investment.
The Minister will later meet National Police officers at an anti-narcotics base to learn about the challenges they face.
On behalf of the UK, she will donate four vehicles and other equipment. The items will make police officers safer and bolster capability in combating criminal gangs.
Ecuador is the first country the Minister is visiting in Latin America since being appointed last month.
Baroness Chapman, Minister for Latin America and the Caribbean, said:
The new UK Government is committed to renewing our partnership with Latin America – co-operating closely on shared priorities including climate change, security and economic prosperity.
I’m making my first visit, as Minister, to Ecuador – a country with which we share democratic values – to offer my unequivocal backing in your fight against organised crime.
Which is why the UK is donating essential security equipment to brave police officers putting their lives on the line daily to protect the Ecuadorean people.
Violence must never be allowed to prevail over democracy and the rule of law.
Baroness Chapman’s programme – which will also include travel to the Amazon and meeting indigenous leaders – reflects the growing environmental, trade and security ties between the UK and Ecuador.
The UK manages over $200 million of projects in the Ecuadorean Amazon – including $34 million in direct funding to communities – to enable sustainable use of land and reduce deforestation.
Trade is also increasing between the two countries. In 2023, it grew by 10 per cent to total £329 million per year.
