During his trip, Rubio will focus on reducing illegal migration, fighting organized crime, and countering China's growing influence, including efforts to prevent China from using Mexico as a trade backdoor to the U.S.

Many Latin American countries are increasingly accepting the return of their nationals deported from the U.S. and are taking stronger actions against drug cartels, which are often designated as foreign terrorist organizations.

While Ecuador has made progress in managing immigration, concerns remain about handling migrants from third countries, with discussions likely to avoid formal agreements on third-country nationals.

There have been notable successes in countering Chinese influence, such as Panama reclaiming control of canal port facilities from Chinese companies and Ecuador beginning to withdraw from China's Belt and Road initiative amid debt concerns.

U.S. Secretary of State Rubio is set to visit Mexico and Ecuador next week to discuss critical issues such as immigration, drug cartel activity, and Chinese influence in Latin America, reflecting broader efforts by the U.S. to strengthen border security and counter Chinese economic expansion.

In Mexico, President Claudia Sheinbaum indicated that the U.S. and Mexico are close to reaching a security agreement to combat drug cartels, though she rejected unilateral military actions proposed by the U.S., with ongoing negotiations to strengthen security cooperation.

During Rubio's visits, the U.S. aims to encourage swift action against criminal organizations and malicious actors throughout the Americas.

The U.S. emphasizes its commitment to border security, disrupting narco-terrorist threats, and promoting fair economic practices across the hemisphere.

Rubio plans to meet with President Daniel Noboa in Ecuador to advise him to reduce reliance on China, which has become a major partner through infrastructure investments under China's Belt and Road Initiative.

These visits are part of a broader U.S. strategy to counter Chinese influence and address regional security and immigration challenges.

Rubio's trip follows previous visits to Panama, El Salvador, Guatemala, and other countries, focusing on Chinese influence and immigration issues.

Rubio's visit to Mexico marks his first trip to the country, aiming to enhance cooperation on dismantling cartels, ending fentanyl trafficking, and reducing illegal border crossings amid ongoing tensions.

This visit follows Rubio's earlier diplomatic efforts in Central America and the Caribbean, emphasizing the U.S. focus on the region as part of its foreign policy.

In Ecuador, President Daniel Noboa is working to address increasing gang violence and is collaborating with the U.S. on reducing illegal immigration, including discussions on managing migrants from third countries.

Rubio will meet with presidents and officials to discuss regional security, trade, and geopolitical issues, including tariffs on fentanyl and other trade protections under the U.S.-Mexico-Canada agreement.