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WASHINGTON (AP) — Vice President Joe Biden says President Barack Obama's budget will call for $1 billion in aid for Central America. He says that's three times what the U.S. typically gives the region.
Biden writes in an op-ed in The New York Times that the aid will help Central American leaders make tough reforms needed to address security, political and economic challenges.
He's specifically citing the economic conditions in El Salvador, Guatemala and Honduras that contributed to a surge in unaccompanied minors showing up on the U.S. border last summer.
The White House says $400 million will go to promote trade, economic integration and energy. Another $300 million is for police reform, defense cooperation and organized crime reduction.
Obama also wants $250 million to help countries strengthen their courts and government institutions.
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