Costa Rica has announced its decision to accept 200 migrants from Central Asia and India as part of a new repatriation initiative by the United States. This announcement on February 17 marks Costa Rica as the third Central American nation, following Panama and Guatemala, to work with the U.S. government on handling deported migrants.

The announcement was made by the Costa Rican president’s office, which stated that the first group of deportees would arrive on a commercial flight on Wednesday. These individuals will be accommodated at a Temporary Migrant Care Center near the border with Panama until their repatriation process is completed. The entire operation will be financed by the U.S. government, supervised by the International Organization for Migration (IOM).

This new approach comes as part of the Trump administration's broader strategy to intensify deportations amid tightened immigration policies. Secretary of State Marco Rubio has worked on assuring Central American governments of their collaboration in migration matters, which first gained traction during his recent travels in Latin America.

Residents in Costa Rica might recall the significant influx of migrants passing through the country in search of better opportunities in the U.S., many of whom faced perilous journeys through Central America. However, the trend seems to have shifted, with a notable drop in the number of migrants recently due to enhanced border controls implemented by the U.S., Mexico, and neighboring countries.

Previously, Panama received its first set of deportees last week, consisting of 119 migrants originating from various regions, including Asia and Africa. As Costa Rica prepares to handle this influx, the government's statement emphasizes its role in facilitating safe returns for those displaced.

As the situation evolves, the challenges and implications of this new repatriation strategy on migrant rights and regional cooperation remain a focal point of discussion among policymakers and human rights advocates.

For more details, visit the original sources: India Times, VOA News.