WASHINGTON—Representative Eliot L. Engel (D-NY), Ranking Member of the House Committee on Foreign Affairs; Representative Ileana Ros-Lehtinen (R-FL), the Chairman Emeritus of the Committee; and Representative Albio Sires (D-NJ), Ranking Member of the Subcommittee on the Western Hemisphere, today made the following statement regarding recent developments in Guatemala:

“As strong supporters of the Alliance for Prosperity in the Northern Triangle, we reaffirm our commitment and support for the efforts of President Morales, Attorney General Aldana, and CICIG Commissioner Velásquez to combat corruption and impunity in Guatemala. All parties involved, including the private sector, must find ways to work together in a collaborative effort to root out corruption once and for all. To that end, we recognize that President Morales has increased the budget for the Attorney General’s office, and we welcome this development.

“Attorney General Aldana and Commissioner Velásquez have done extraordinary work combating corruption and impunity in Guatemala, and we urge President Morales to continue supporting these important institutions.

“The removal of Commissioner Velásquez would force members of Congress to make tough decisions regarding the amount and nature of future foreign assistance to Guatemala.”

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