President Donald Trump has extended an invitation to El Salvador’s president, Nayib Bukele, to visit the White House on April 14. The discussions will center on collaboration regarding border security, the repatriation of criminals, and possibly Bitcoin.
This invitation comes in the wake of a public display of mutual admiration between the two leaders, particularly highlighted by Bukele’s vigorous campaign against gang violence and his management of U.S. deported criminals. In an official letter shared by Bukele on X on April 1, Trump commended Bukele’s actions to combat gang violence and support U.S. deportation strategies.
“Equally significant to our partnership is your readiness to utilize El Salvador’s new supermax prison for Tren de Aragua and MS-13 gang members. Your leadership is exemplary and serves as a model for others wishing to collaborate with the United States.”
— U.S. President Donald Trump
Bukele had previously expressed gratitude in response to one of Trump’s posts thanking him for accepting prisoners, stating, “Thankful for your kind words, President Trump. Together moving forward!” Through dramatic footage of prisoners being escorted into the facilities in El Salvador, Bukele has cultivated a strongman persona that resonates well with Trump’s supporters.
His strategy, which has seen nearly 2% of El Salvador’s population incarcerated while simultaneously reducing crime rates, has garnered him substantial popularity, with approval ratings exceeding 85%. Hosting deported criminals in his mega-prison has not only endeared him to Trump but it has also helped secure millions of dollars in U.S. funds for El Salvador.
In addition to crime and immigration, Bitcoin (BTC) might also feature on the agenda. El Salvador holds over 6,100 BTC, while the Trump administration recently instituted a National Bitcoin Reserve utilizing confiscated crypto assets. With no other world leaders included in the invite, this common interest could pave the way for discussions about regulations on digital assets, financial collaboration, or even joint blockchain initiatives.
Bukele may also be looking for economic advantages in light of the tariffs recently imposed by Trump. His administration could advocate for lowered tariffs on Salvadoran exports as part of broader trade negotiations.
El Salvador’s economy, which primarily relies on the export of textiles and agricultural products, stands to gain from improved trade relations with the United States, the nation’s largest trading partner.