AGP Executive Report

Public Health & Travel: With the World Cup bringing millions of visitors to U.S. host cities, experts warn that weakened federal disease-prevention capacity could leave Americans more exposed to outbreaks like Ebola and measles. Agriculture Biosecurity: Texas officials say the New World screwworm has returned after decades, and Gov. Greg Abbott is pushing faster construction of a sterile-fly breeding facility to protect the cattle industry. Tech & Sovereignty: El Salvador launched a synthetic “virtual citizens” AI dataset—about one million personas—aimed at privacy-first development, alongside a major boost to higher-education scholarships. Markets & Growth: El Salvador’s stock market reportedly jumped 52% year-over-year, signaling rapid financial momentum. Regional Politics: Colombia’s runoff race is heating up after President Gustavo Petro accused the Trump administration of election interference, as far-right outsider Abelardo de la Espriella gains momentum. International Security: India condemned an attack that killed UN peacekeepers in Lebanon and called for accountability.

US–El Salvador Sports Spotlight: Qatar closes its World Cup warm-up run with a June 6 friendly vs El Salvador at BMO Stadium, with coach Julen Lopetegui using the match to lock in his starting XI. World Cup Build-Up: South Korea edged El Salvador 1-0 in a final tune-up, setting the tone for the tournament opener. El Salvador in the Global News Cycle: A UN statement condemned a June 3 shelling that killed a Serbian UNIFIL peacekeeper and injured peacekeepers from Spain and El Salvador, calling for a full investigation. Trade Pressure on El Salvador: The Trump administration proposed Section 301 forced-labor tariffs that include El Salvador among targeted countries, with trading partners pushing back. Immigration & Media Fallout (US): CBS News turmoil continues after Scott Pelley’s firing from “60 Minutes,” as staff dispute leadership changes. Public Health Watch (US–Mexico): Texas confirmed its first New World screwworm case since 1966, prompting an expanded response near the border.

Healthcare Tech Leap: El Salvador says it has hit 100% digital connectivity across all public health centers, rolling out tablets, laptops, and network power systems under the Social Digital Connectivity Program with support from the IDB and the EU. Trade & Forced Labor: The U.S. proposes new forced-labor tariffs on imports from 60 countries, including El Salvador, after a Section 301 review—an approach trading partners say is unjustified. Animal Health Alert: Texas confirmed the New World screwworm for the first time in decades, with larvae found in a calf near the Mexico border, triggering quarantine and heightened surveillance to protect livestock and wildlife. World Cup Culture: Salvadorans joined the “Dai Dai” World Cup dance challenge at Estadio Cuscatlán, inspired by Shakira’s viral push. Diplomacy & Security: India condemned an attack on UN peacekeepers in Lebanon that killed a Serbian soldier and injured two others, including one from El Salvador. Sports: South Korea beat El Salvador 1-0 in a final World Cup warm-up.

Livestock Health Alert: The USDA confirmed the New World screwworm in a 3-week-old calf in south Texas near the Mexico border, triggering a quarantine zone and expanded surveillance after decades without a U.S. case; officials say it doesn’t threaten food, but it could hit cattle production if it spreads. El Salvador in International Headlines: A UNIFIL attack in Lebanon killed a Serbian peacekeeper and wounded two others, including an El Salvador soldier, as Qatar condemned the strike and called for accountability. Human Rights Pressure: Amnesty International and other groups renewed calls for El Salvador to release anti-corruption lawyer Ruth Eleonora López, held in pretrial detention for more than a year under conditions advocates call arbitrary. Sports (World Cup Build-Up): South Korea beat El Salvador 1-0 in a final World Cup warm-up in Provo, Utah, with Lee Dong-gyeong scoring the lone goal on a free kick.

World Cup Build-Up: South Korea edged El Salvador 1-0 in their final pre-World Cup friendly in Provo, Utah, with Lee Dong-gyeong scoring from a curling free kick in the 57th minute; captain Son Heung-min came on after starting on the bench as coach Hong Myung-bo said the match helped the team learn and improve ahead of Group A in Mexico. U.S.-El Salvador Trade: The Trump administration proposed new Section 301 tariffs tied to “forced labour” findings, listing El Salvador among 60 economies that could face 10% or 12.5% duties, with public comments and hearings expected before any final decision. Biosecurity Watch: USDA confirmed a New World screwworm case in a calf in south Texas, prompting quarantine and movement controls near the Mexico border—an alert that could hit livestock supplies and prices. Immigration Court Fight: DHS Secretary Markwayne Mullin signaled he’d be willing to send Salvadoran deportation case Kilmar Abrego Garcia to Costa Rica, a move that could reshape his legal battle over where he’s removed. Media Turmoil: CBS fired longtime “60 Minutes” correspondent Scott Pelley after a clash with new executive producer Nick Bilton, deepening the upheaval around Bari Weiss’s leadership changes.

Forced-Labor Tariffs: The U.S. Trade Representative has proposed Section 301 tariffs of 10% to 12.5% on imports from 60 economies, including El Salvador and Guatemala, saying they failed to enforce bans on goods made with forced labor; a public hearing is set for July 7. Health Watch: The Pan American Health Organization is warning of a measles resurgence across the Americas ahead of the 2026 World Cup, noting cases have surged fourfold since 2025 and urging stronger surveillance and vaccination checks for travelers. Immigration & Enforcement: U.S. Border Patrol’s Operation Checkmate in Arizona arrested 52 people, including 30 Indian nationals and 36 commercial truck drivers, with removals expected. Media Turmoil: CBS fired “60 Minutes” correspondent Scott Pelley after a clash tied to new leadership under Bari Weiss, escalating a broader shakeup at the network.

US Trade: The Trump administration’s USTR proposed new 10% to 12.5% tariffs on imports from 60 economies, saying many failed to effectively block goods made with forced labor; the plan targets countries including Pakistan, India, and El Salvador, and opens a public comment period before any final decision. El Salvador Economy & Services: El Salvador reported 4.2% economic activity growth in March, led by financial and professional services, while the new Hospital Rosales began operating with 45+ specialties and 24/7 emergency care. Water Infrastructure: ANDA signed a contract with a Spanish consortium to cut “non-revenue water” and reduce leaks in the capital, including replacing about 120,000 connections. Healthcare Expansion: The Rosales hospital launch and staffing push (3,200+ local professionals plus international specialists) underline the government’s push to modernize public health. Public Health Watch: PAHO warned measles cases are rising across the Americas ahead of the 2026 World Cup, urging stronger vaccination and surveillance. Immigration Crackdown: US authorities said “Operation Checkmate” in Arizona led to 52 arrests, including 36 commercial truck drivers, with deportations expected.

Healthcare Milestone: President Nayib Bukele opened the New Rosales Hospital, a major $7 million upgrade that brings more than 40 medical specialties and advanced surgical capacity to Salvadorans as he marks seven years in office. Economy Watch: El Salvador reported sustained economic growth, higher investment, and rising international reserves, pointing to stronger financial stability heading into 2026. Public Health & Safety: A new study links glyphosate exposure in agricultural workers in El Salvador and Nicaragua to kidney function harm, raising fresh pressure on herbicide safety and regulation. Agriculture & Border Risk: USDA says a New World screwworm was detected in Mexico about 25 miles from the U.S. border, keeping livestock risk low but under close monitoring. Immigration Enforcement Spillover: U.S. Border Patrol arrested 36 commercial truck drivers in Arizona during “Operation Checkmate,” including drivers from El Salvador, as federal scrutiny of noncitizen CDL programs continues. Politics Across the Region: Colombia’s presidential race heads toward a runoff after a surprise first-round win by pro–“iron fist” candidate Abelardo de la Espriella, drawing comparisons to Bukele-style security.

Healthcare Upgrade: President Nayib Bukele inaugurated the New Rosales Hospital, restoring historic parts of the old facility while adding a modern tertiary complex with advanced surgical and hybrid operating rooms, aiming to expand specialized care nationwide. U.S. Immigration Crackdown: U.S. Border Patrol in Arizona’s Yuma Sector arrested 52 people during “Operation Checkmate,” including 36 semi-truck drivers; 30 were from India and others included El Salvador, Mexico, and Russia, with deportations expected. Colombia Runoff Watch: Colombia’s presidential first round ended in a tight race: far-right outsider Abelardo de la Espriella led with about 43.7%, followed by leftist Iván Cepeda at about 40.9%; both will face off in a June 21 runoff as Petro and Cepeda questioned the vote count. Sports Diplomacy: South Korea kept momentum after a 5-0 win over Trinidad and Tobago, and will play El Salvador in a World Cup tuneup in Provo, Utah, this week. Local Culture Abroad: A Salvadoran dance group (Shipaki) is set to perform at the Manitoba Summer Fair, bringing Cuscatlecos traditions to Canada.

Colombia Runoff: Pro-Trump outsider Abelardo de la Espriella (“El Tigre”) surged to a first-round lead with about 43.7% and will face leftist Sen. Iván Cepeda (about 40.9%) in a June 21 runoff, as both sides trade accusations and Petro allies question the vote count. El Salvador Economy & Skills: President Nayib Bukele met with ANEP’s new leadership as business groups push faster tech education, AI, and English training to tap U.S. nearshoring and improve the investment climate. Labor Rights Win: El Salvador was removed from the ILO’s watchlist for labor rights non-compliance after two decades, a move officials say reflects coordinated government, employers, and unions. UNESCO in Schools: UNESCO’s regional director visited El Salvador to assess progress on the EU-funded Agustine Project, focused on violence prevention and safer, more inclusive classrooms. CBS/“60 Minutes” Turmoil: Scott Pelley attacked CBS News leadership, saying Bari Weiss is “murdering” “60 Minutes,” as Nick Bilton takes over amid major firings and staff unrest. Migration Pressure: A U.S. case highlights how ICE is detaining young immigrants even when they had legal protections like Special Immigrant Juvenile Status.

Colombia Runoff Looms: Tough-on-crime outsider Abelardo de la Espriella (“El Tigre”) won Colombia’s presidential first round with about 43.7% and will face leftist senator Iván Cepeda (about 40.9%) in a June 21 runoff after neither hit 50%. Election Crisis: Outgoing President Gustavo Petro and Cepeda immediately questioned the preliminary results, alleging irregularities and “atypical” voting patterns without evidence, while de la Espriella warned them not to disregard the vote. Security vs. “Total Peace”: The runoff pits de la Espriella’s hardline, pro-U.S. and anti-crime agenda—including plans for mega-prisons—against Cepeda’s push to continue Petro’s “total peace” approach. El Salvador Watch: El Salvador extended its state of exception for the 51st time, suspending key constitutional guarantees through June 29, as officials cite continued gang-related arrests and declining violence.

Colombia Election Watch: Colombians voted Sunday in a high-stakes presidential race that could reshape the country’s approach to peace talks and a surge in guerrilla violence, with leftist Ivan Cepeda leading polls but facing hard-right outsider Abelardo de la Espriella; violence has marked the campaign, including drone attacks and assassinations. Immigration Pressure in the U.S.: A new wave of ICE enforcement is prompting immigrant advocates to mobilize, as legal residents report job and access restrictions tied to tighter federal rules. World Cup Build-Up: South Korea crushed Trinidad and Tobago 5-0 in a pre-World Cup friendly in Utah, with Son Heung-min scoring twice; Korea’s next test is El Salvador at BYU South Field. Public Health Debate: A UK opinion piece criticizes the rejection of mass prostate cancer screening, arguing men are being left behind on early detection. Global Health Alert: Ebola has been confirmed in Congo’s Ituri province, with hundreds of suspected cases and deaths reported amid security and access challenges.

ICE & Migrant Enforcement: Advocates in Massachusetts say rising ICE activity is pushing them to organize, verify enforcement reports, and connect immigrants with legal help. Regional Police Crackdown: An INTERPOL-led operation across the Americas seized 3,308 illegal firearms and 56 tonnes of drugs, with thousands of arrests. El Salvador Education & Environment: El Salvador says it hit 100% school supply kit distribution nationwide, while the #MOPVerde reforestation push adds new tree-planting events. Local Economy & Tourism: Pollo Campero opened a new $2.5 million flagship in San Salvador’s historic center, signaling renewed private investment. Colombia Election Watch (U.S.-linked): With Colombia voting Sunday, international observers are ramping up monitoring ahead of a likely runoff; key contenders include Ivan Cepeda and Abelardo de la Espriella, with security and violence dominating the debate. Accountability in Immigration Cases: A Minnesota-bound arrest follows allegations an ICE agent lied after a non-fatal shooting of a Salvadoran immigrant.

Education Push: El Salvador says it hit 100% coverage in its school supply kit distribution, delivering materials to every public-school student nationwide as President Nayib Bukele frames education as the next pillar of development. Economy & Migration: Remittances to El Salvador rose 6.8% in the first four months of 2026, reaching $3.2867 billion, with the U.S. still the biggest source. Environment: The Ministry of Public Works is expanding reforestation under #MOPVerde, with new tree-planting events planned across the country and at Bicentennial Park. Local Business & Tourism: Pollo Campero opened a new $2.5 million flagship in San Salvador’s historic center, signaling renewed private investment and jobs in the capital’s core. Regional Security Watch: Colombia’s presidential election is set for Sunday amid rising political violence, with voters weighing left vs. right plans for handling the war and armed groups. Justice & Rights: A mass trial in El Salvador has begun for hundreds of alleged MS-13 members tied to tens of thousands of crimes, raising human-rights concerns over the extended emergency powers.

Deportation Fight: A Salvadoran man, Jose Yugar-Cruz, who won a court order blocking deportation to his home country over fears of torture, is now cleared for ICE to deport him instead to the Democratic Republic of Congo—leaving him devastated and unsure of what comes next. Local Crime & Immigration: In Virginia, a Salvadoran accused of sexual assault has drawn fresh backlash after DHS said an earlier ICE detainer was denied, reigniting the fight between federal immigration enforcement and Virginia’s sanctuary policies. El Salvador in the U.S. Legal Spotlight: A federal judge ordered the U.S. to let a former Milwaukee teacher’s aide, Yessenia Ruano, return after she was effectively forced to self-deport to El Salvador while a trafficking-related visa case was pending. Regional Politics: Colombia’s presidential vote is set for May 31 with heavy international observation, as voters weigh leftist continuity under Iván Cepeda against right-wing security plans. El Salvador Economy & Trade: A new study highlights how second-hand clothing shipped from the U.S. is a major source of affordable apparel in El Salvador, with most items priced under $15. El Salvador Security & Governance: El Salvador’s customs anti-corruption system received an international ISO 37001 certification, underscoring tighter controls. Media & Deportation Coverage: CBS’s “60 Minutes” continues to roil after a major overhaul, with fired correspondents citing alleged political bias—amid ongoing scrutiny of deportation reporting.

CBS “60 Minutes” Shakeup: CBS News editor-in-chief Bari Weiss replaced executive producer Tanya Simon with tech journalist and documentary filmmaker Nick Bilton, while correspondents Sharyn Alfonsi and Cecilia Vega were fired amid accusations of “censorship” and political interference tied to a CECOT prison segment. El Salvador Public Space Upgrade: San Salvador’s Bicentennial Park is now open 24/7, with new lighting, restroom upgrades, and a reforestation push aimed at boosting eco-tourism and safer nighttime access. Tourism & Sports: El Salvador’s Surf City Pro and Festival (June 6–14) will be free for visitors, as organizers expect a surge of local and international surfers. World Cup Prep (Regional Sports): South Korea will face Trinidad and Tobago, then El Salvador, in pre-World Cup friendlies in Utah, with altitude conditions a key factor. International Friendly: Qatar fell 1-0 to Ireland in Dublin, with Nathan Collins scoring early and a red card complicating Qatar’s response.