Houston Chronicle

Honduras

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Regarding “Stop the violence” (Page B15, Aug. 16), as the Chronicle editorial rightly points out, patience, time and money are crucial elements to solving Central America’s problems.

For too long, countries in Central America have tried to tackle issues of crime, violence and poverty separately. But upon the formation last fall of the Alliance for Prosperity, Honduras, Guatemala and El Salvador — with the support of the United States — have come together to jointly counter the challenges that we face, mainly the lack of opportunit­ies and other root causes of migration flows to this country.

Honduras is making progress in dealing with crime and violence and is no longer ranked as one of the most violent countries. We have reduced homicide rates from 88.6 per 100,000 inhabitant­s in 2011 to 66 per 100,000 inhabitant­s in 2014. Also, we are seeing a downward trend that we hope to maintain in 2015 and beyond.

Central America’s ability to thrive depends on a commitment that spans years, and U.S. leadership is crucial. The Obama administra­tion’s aid request will not only be used to counter today’s security ills, but to help lay the groundwork for future prosperity.

Jorge Milla-Reyes, Ambassador of Honduras

to the United States of America, Washington, D.C.

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