Costa Rica has agreed to assist the United States in repatriating illegal immigrants, including those from India and Central Asia, by serving as a “bridge” for their return to their home countries.
The first group of 200 migrants, set to arrive on Wednesday, will be flown into the Juan Santamaria International Airport, according to a statement from Costa Rican President Rodrigo Chaves Robles’ office.
The statement confirmed that Costa Rica will collaborate with the United States in facilitating the return of these migrants, hailing from Central Asia and India.
While the statement did not specify how many of the migrants are from India, it emphasised Costa Rica’s role in providing temporary care and logistical support until their final repatriation.
Upon arrival, the migrants will be transferred to a temporary care facility in Costa Rica, where they will remain under the supervision of the International Organization for Migration (IOM) before being sent back to their countries of origin.
This repatriation initiative is being funded by the US government.
This arrangement follows a series of diplomatic engagements, including discussions during Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s recent visit to the US.
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The talks focused on several key bilateral matters, including immigration.
In recent weeks, the Trump administration has ramped up efforts to address illegal immigration, leading to the repatriation of several Indian nationals.
Already, three separate batches totalling 332 Indians have been returned to India as part of the crackdown on illegal immigration.
The cooperation between Costa Rica and the United States marks a new phase in the ongoing efforts to manage the flow of undocumented migrants from various regions.
