Statement by the Spokesperson following the election of Mr Nayib Bukele as future President of the Republic of El Salvador

On 3 February, the people of the Republic of El Salvador cast their vote to elect their future President. Although the results are not yet final, all contenders have recognised the victory of Mr Nayib Bukele. The smooth electoral process is yet another signal of the strength of the country’s democratic institutions and constitutes one additional step towards a reconciled participative democracy where different opinions are peacefully confronted for the good of the whole country.

As part of the EU long-term commitment with El Salvador, an Election Observation Mission was deployed in December to follow the electoral process and has issued its Preliminary Statement. According to the Mission, the Supreme Electoral Tribunal has successfully administered credible, peaceful and transparent elections. The EU Election Observation Mission will remain in El Salvador until the end of the electoral process is completed and will subsequently publish a final report with recommendations for improving the electoral framework in line with El Salvador’s international commitments.

The EU and the Republic of El Salvador have built a strong bilateral relationship over the years. Both are also part of the EU-Central America Association Agreement that includes a vibrant Free Trade Agreement as well as pillars on political dialogue and cooperation. The EU is looking forward to developing a strong and fruitful relationship with the new administration on the basis of our common principles and interests with a view to further support, among others, the development of economic opportunities, good governance and citizen security, as well as being stronger together to face global challenges