they agreed to recognize as an urgent priority the need to carry out coordinated actions to fight transnational crime swiftly and relentlessly.
"Unfortunately, these transnational criminal organizations on our shared border are engaged in illicit activities such as illegal mining and arms trafficking, which have led to a worrying escalation of violence affecting our populations and native communities," he asserted.
During his address at the 16th Peru-Ecuador Binational Cabinet and Presidential Meeting held in Quito, Peru's top official stated that both neighboring nations have been facing common challenges in the field of security over recent years.
Similarly, the Head of State emphasized that Peru and Ecuador have established a broad and substantive bilateral agenda, supported by the historic friendship bonds uniting them.
Jeri underlined that the extensive frontier they share has brought their border populations closer together and has allowed the development of economic, cultural, and close-neighbor relations.
"A clear example of this is the solidarity shown by our respective governments in responding to the emergencies that occurred this year in both countries," he stated.
In this regard, Jeri assured attendees that the Presidential Meeting and Binational Cabinet is the main mechanism for political dialogue and coordination between the two nations, which today will define the priorities that will guide their work in 2026.
He stated that Peru is fully committed to continuing to strengthen the political and technical cooperation mechanisms that have proven essential for ensuring continuity of interests, addressing shared challenges, and transforming the border areas.
Moreover, the President stated that he looks forward to the presentation by the Ministers of Environment on the implementation of the binational commitments aimed at the restoration of transboundary watersheds and the promotion of sustainable mining management.
Peru's top official also expressed confidence that, during the meeting, coordinated progress will be made to address the situation of the Puyango-Tumbes watershed, which has been significantly affecting the environment, economy, and health of both countries' populations.
"The presidential declaration that we will sign on this occasion will represent the most recent expression of the firm commitment that both countries, Mr. President (Noboa), have assumed to continue advancing together along the path of sustainable development," he pointed out.
The two Heads of State currently lead the Presidential Meeting and 16th Peru-Ecuador Binational Cabinet in Quito.