June 1, 2022
Minister of Defense José Manuel Zelaya, Mayor of Trujillo Héctor Mendoza, representatives of the community and special guests,
A very good day to you all.
It is a pleasure to be here to show our support to the Honduran people and strengthen the ties between our countries. Although this is my first visit to this part of Honduras, I hope it will not be my last. I am here today to demonstrate how the U.S. military, the Honduran military, and local authorities are working together to improve the health and education of the people of Trujillo.
First, Salvador Paredes Hospital asked for a donation to build a medical center to provide specialized care for people affected by HIV. U.S. Southern Command’s Humanitarian Assistance Program donated approximately $750,000 dollars for the construction of this Integrated Care Service Center, or SAI. The Municipality of Trujillo’s Ministry of Health, along with local NGOs, donated furniture and the team to make this dream come true.
Second, after here, I will visit a medical brigade from Joint Task Force Bravo, in coordination with the Health Secretariat. This medical brigade will perform approximately 12 surgeries for patients who have waited a long time for medical treatment. This effort is valued at approximately $30,000.
And third, the U.S. Southern Command is also donating approximately $100,000 of construction materials to renovate four schools in Trujillo. The Municipality of Trujillo is providing the labor for this project. In doing so, we are promoting public education for children in Honduras.
These three projects show what can be accomplished when the U.S. and Honduran militaries and local officials work together. The U.S. Government remains firmly committed to the Honduran people. We are pleased to support President Castro in her efforts to invest in health and education. We also stand with Honduras to strengthen the country’s institutions, security, and social development, so that everyone can see a bright future here in Honduras. Thank you.
