Political Dialogue and Cooperation Agreement between the European Community and Central America (2014)

The Agreement establishes a comprehensive framework for political dialogue and cooperation between the European Union and six Central American countries (Costa Rica, El Salvador, Guatemala, Honduras, Nicaragua, and Panama) signed in Rome on December 15, 2003, and published in the Official Journal of the European Union on April 15, 2014. This legal instrument strengthens bilateral relations through the promotion of democratic principles, human rights, rule of law, and sustainable development. The Agreement covers key areas such as Central American regional integration, poverty reduction, trade, economic cooperation, environmental protection, and management of shared challenges including migration, illicit drugs, and terrorism. It constitutes a strategic partnership that replaces the 1993 Framework Cooperation Agreement and prepares conditions for future negotiations of free trade agreements between both regions.