Telephonic Press Briefing with Francis R. Fannon, Assistant Secretary, Bureau of Energy Resources
![Dominican Republic [Shutterstock]](https://webarchive.library.unt.edu/web/20201218104424im_/https://www.state.gov/wp-content/uploads/2019/04/Dominican-Republic-e1556042153208-2500x1406.jpg)
International Travel Information
What you need to know before you go: visas, Embassy & Consulate locations, vaccinations, etc.
International Travel Information: Learn MoreHighlights
U.S. Relationship
- U.S.-Dominican Republic Relations
- U.S. Assistance to the Dominican Republic
- Bilateral Economic Relations
U.S.-Dominican Republic Relations
U.S. relations with the Dominican Republic are solid, but complex. The country is an important partner in hemispheric affairs due to its standing in the Caribbean as the second-largest economy (behind Cuba) and third-largest country in terms of population (behind Cuba and Haiti), its large bilateral trade with the United States, and its proximity to the United States. The two governments cooperate in the fight against trafficking in illegal substances and persons, the extradition of fugitives, and measures to hinder illegal migration.
U.S. Assistance to the Dominican Republic
U.S. assistance helps build accountable and transparent institutions that can better serve the needs of the Dominican people and strengthen democratic governance. In addition, U.S. assistance stimulates income generation opportunities for youth, small businesses, and rural communities, promotes English language learning and increased educational and cultural opportunities through exchange programs, improves the protection of the environment, enables local organizations to promote ecological and cultural tourism, and furthers the equitable provision of quality health and education services.
Bilateral Economic Relations
The Dominican Republic’s most important trading partner is the United States. The two countries are parties to the Dominican Republic-Central America-United States Free Trade Agreement (CAFTA-DR), along with five Central American countries. This agreement creates new economic opportunities by eliminating tariffs, opening markets, reducing barriers to services, and promoting transparency. It facilitates trade and investment among the seven countries and furthers regional integration.
