Agreement 01-SG-2018

The Secretariat of Foreign Relations and International Cooperation has charge of the powers and dispatch of the matters that are expressly entrusted to it by the Constitution of the Republic, the General Law of Public Administration, the Regulation of Organization, Operation and Competencies of the Executive Branch, the Law of the Diplomatic and Consular Service of Honduras, Executive Decree PCM 070-2017 and other regulations, decrees, agreements and resolutions issued by the President of the Republic.

This regulation develops, regulates and determines the purpose, objectives, organizational structure, competence and functions of the Secretariat of Foreign Relations and International Cooperation, hereinafter SRECI. The SRECI has as its fundamental purpose the formulation, coordination, execution, supervision and evaluation of foreign policy and relations with other States and multilateral organizations, under the authority and direction of the President of the Republic.

The SRECI, in accordance with what is prescribed in the preceding article, shall have the following objectives:

• a)

  The protection of the rights and interests of the country at the international level and of its nationals;

• b)

  The international defense of our sovereignty and borders;

• c)

  The direction, administration, strengthening and professionalization of the Diplomatic and Consular Services;

• d)

  The promotion of political, economic, cultural relations, investments, tourism, national image and international cooperation; and,

• e)

  The enhancement of regional integration processes.

The organizational structure of the SRECI is determined in Annex I of this Regulation.

The SRECI is directed by a Secretary of State, whose powers are:

• 1)

  To orient, direct, coordinate, supervise and control the activities of his office, without prejudice to the powers that the Constitution and the laws confer on other bodies;

• 2)

  To comply with and ensure compliance with what is prescribed by the Constitution of the Republic, the laws and general and special regulations and the orders that the President of the Republic may lawfully impose on him, to whom he must account for his actions;

• 3)

  To inform in writing to the President of the Republic of the official actions that he carries out outside the country;

• 4)

  To attend the meetings of the Council of Secretaries of State and others established by Law;

• 5)

  To formulate, with respect to matters within his competence, draft laws, regulations and other acts requested by the President of the Republic;

• 6)

  To issue regulations on internal organization of his respective office;

• 7)

  To forward to the National Congress the draft laws that have been approved by the Council of Secretaries of State and that deal with matters within his competence;

• 8)

  To issue agreements and resolutions in matters within his competence and those delegated to him by the President of the Republic and to ensure their execution;

• 9)

  To prepare the Budget Draft of the SRECI for its study, processing and forwarding to the competent Secretariat of State;

• 10)

  To exercise superior administration, direction, inspection and safeguard of the movable and immovable property and values assigned to the SRECI;

• 11)

  To exercise over the entities of the Decentralized Public Administration, comprised within the sector assigned to him by the President of the Republic, the functions of direction, coordination and control that correspond to them pursuant to the General Law of Public Administration and other laws;

• 12)

  To order the expenses of the SRECI and to intervene in the processing of additional allocations and other modifications to the respective budget;

• 13)

  To resolve matters that are known in a single instance and administrative remedies through which his own acts or those of his hierarchical subordinates in the corresponding instance are challenged;

• 14)

  To authorize with his signature, prior compliance with applicable legal provisions, contracts related to matters proper to the SRECI, whose value does not exceed the amounts prescribed in budgetary laws;

• 15)

  To communicate to the Attorney General of the Republic what is pertinent to protect, from the legal point of view, the interests of the State that are under the care of the SRECI;

• 16)

  To timely fulfill the obligations that the Law establishes with respect to the Superior Court of Accounts;

• 17)

  To resolve conflicts of attribution that arise between the departments of the SRECI;

• 18)

  To sign the acts and correspondence of the Office under his charge;

• 19)

  To delegate powers to Undersecretaries of State, Secretary General and Directors General, as well as to the officials of the SRECI that he deems appropriate;

• 20)

  To authorize the judicial proceedings that must be carried out in the departments of the SRECI;

• 21)

  To countersign the decrees, agreements and other acts issued by the President of the Republic;

• 22)

  To prepare the Annual Report of the activities of the SRECI and submit it for consideration of the National Congress;

• 23)

  To heed the calls that the National Congress or its Permanent Commissions make to him on matters within his competence, relating to Public Administration;

• 24)

  To request the collaboration of any governmental department, within the limits of his powers;

• 25)

  To protect the rights and interests of Hondurans abroad in accordance with International Law;

• 26)

  To attend to relations with diplomatic missions, representations of international organizations and/or consular offices accredited in the national territory;

• 27)

  To determine the position of the Government of the Republic on matters in the bilateral and multilateral fields with other States and in international forums in accordance with the guidelines of foreign policy;

• 28)

  To decide on the opening, closure, representativeness and organization of embassies, permanent missions or consular offices and the appointment of honorary consuls;

• 29)

  To supervise and evaluate the functioning of the embassies, permanent missions and consular offices, as well as the performance of officials and public servants assigned to the foreign service and internal service in accordance with the reports sent by the Subsecretariats of the Department;

• 30)

  To negotiate, sign, preserve and order the deposit of international treaties and conventions, except when this competence has been attributed to other authorities;

• 31)

  To preserve and use the greater seal of the Republic;

• 32)

  To propose to the President of the Republic the awarding of decorations and special honors to national and foreign personalities in accordance with the pertinent legal provisions;

• 33)

  To process requests for diplomatic asylum that are warranted;

• 34)

  To give legal processing to extradition requests;

• 35)

  To direct, administer and supervise the Diplomatic and Consular Service;

• 36)

  To receive copies of credentials to the Ambassadors or Heads of Mission appointed by the accrediting State and Cabinet Letters where applicable;

• 37)

  To swear in the Heads of Mission sent abroad;

• 38)

  To sign the parchment of the Heads of Mission, where the dispatch of State that accredits them as such and the patent letter of the Heads of Consular Office is recorded;

• 39)

  To present to the President of the Republic the list of officials and public servants incorporated into the Career Diplomatic and Consular Service, for the selection of Ambassadors and Consuls General;

• 40)

  To designate the Nominating Board that will propose the list of career Ambassadors to whom the distinction of Emeritus Ambassador will be granted;

• 41)

  To approve the annual economic study established in the Law of the Diplomatic and Consular Service;

• 42)

  To approve the Manual of Positions and Salaries derived from the Law of the Diplomatic and Consular Service;

• 43)

  To authorize the breakdown of operating expenses assigned to embassies, permanent missions and consular offices;

• 44)

  To authorize expenses that require his approval, requested by embassies, permanent missions and consular offices in accordance with what is established in the Regulation of Operating and Representation Expenses of the Foreign Service;

• 45)

  To authorize the unique allocations established in the Regulation of Operating and Representation Expenses of the Foreign Service;

• 46)

  To approve the annual economic study of adjustments to the allowances for countries of destination of official missions;

• 47)

  To approve the Institutional Strategic Plan (PEI) of the SRECI;

• 48)

  To periodically evaluate the budgetary and physical execution of the SRECI based on the current operating and strategic plans;

• 49)

  To appoint commissions for the attention of matters that he deems pertinent;

• 50)

  To convene and preside over the meetings of the Advisory Council of the SRECI;

• 51)

  To make the pertinent decisions on the reports sent by the Subsecretariats of State with respect to diplomatic missions, permanent missions and consular offices;

• 52)

  To forward the annual report to the National Congress, in accordance with what is established in the Constitution of the Republic;

• 53)

  To grant full powers for the signature of international treaties and conventions, in the cases that correspond;

• 54)

  To sign the Credentials, Copies of Credentials, Letters of Retirement and Cabinet Letters where applicable;

• 55)

  To sign the instruments of ratification, accession and denunciation of international treaties and conventions;

• 56)

  To communicate to the receiving State the formalization of the establishment of diplomatic relations, the suspension or, where applicable, the rupture of diplomatic relations and to call the heads of mission to consultation;

• 57)

  To manage non-reimbursable international cooperation;

• 58)

  To promote the country's economic and commercial relations at the international level;

• 59)

  To form the Committee of Agrément for the review of profiles of Heads of Mission proposed by a foreign Government or international organization;

• 60)

  To form the Committee of Candidatures of Honduras in different international forums;

• 61)

  To form the Committee of Decorations of the different official orders of the nation;

• 62)

  To appoint the members of the Commission on Sovereignty and designate its President;

• 63)

  To sign notes of thanks, congratulation or condolence in case of death of a Head of State or a Minister of Foreign Relations, as well as condolences if natural disasters or accidents of great importance occur;

• 64)

  To designate the members that make up the appraisal commission in the procurement and acquisition processes according to the State Contracting Law; and,

• 65)

  Other matters as established by laws.

The Advisory Council shall be made up of the Secretary and Undersecretaries of State and shall have the purpose of preparing, reviewing, supervising and evaluating the strategic and operative plans, as well as the policies pertaining to the areas of the SRECI.

The Advisory Council shall meet at least once every three months and may participate in its meetings the Diplomatic Cabinet as well as the employees and officials that are deemed pertinent according to the subject matter.

The following report directly to the Secretary of State:

• 1)

  The Undersecretariat of Foreign Policy;

• 2)

  The Undersecretariat of International Cooperation and Promotion;

• 3)

  The Undersecretariat of Consular and Migratory Affairs;

• 4)

  The General Secretariat;

• 5)

  The Diplomatic Cabinet;

• 6)

  The General Directorate of Protocol and State Diplomatic Ceremony;

• 7)

  The Directorate of Strategic Communication;

• 8)

  The Diplomatic Academy "José Cecilio del Valle";

• 9)

  The Administrative Management;

• 10)

  Internal Audit Unit;

• 11)

  Unit of Planning and Evaluation of Management;

• 12)

  Modernization Unit; and,

• 13)

  The Embassies, Permanent Missions and Consular Offices.

The SRECI has three (3) Undersecretaries of State, who shall serve as support to the head of the Institution, comprised in the following areas:

• a)

  Undersecretariat of Foreign Relations of Foreign Policy;

• b)

  Undersecretariat of Foreign Relations of International Cooperation and Promotion; and,

• c)

  Undersecretariat of Foreign Relations of Consular and Migratory Affairs.

The powers and obligations of the Undersecretary of Foreign Policy are:

• 1)

  To comply with and ensure compliance with the Constitution and the laws;

• 2)

  To substitute for the Secretary of State, in case of absence or legal impediment, observing where applicable the order he determines;

• 3)

  To propose to the Secretary of State the policies for the area of his competence and to ensure their execution;

• 4)

  To coordinate and supervise the execution of special programs that the Secretary of State drives and promotes;

• 5)

  To inform the Secretary of State of the matters submitted to his knowledge;

• 6)

  To ensure that his actions are compatible with those of the other Undersecretariats and to coordinate with them on matters of shared interest;

• 7)

  To coordinate and supervise the activity of the General Directorates or other departments that are assigned to him;

• 8)

  To submit to the Secretary of State the draft initiatives of law or decrees, as well as the draft regulations and agreements in matters within his competence;

• 9)

  To make studies on the organization of the administrative units of his department and to propose rationalization measures that are appropriate;

• 10)

  To resolve matters delegated to him by the Secretary of State;

• 11)

  To represent the SRECI in the acts that the Secretary determines and to participate, where applicable, in national and international forums and events in matters relating to the subjects that are the competence of the administrative units under his responsibility;

• 12)

  To propose to the Secretary of State, the opening, closure and organization of embassies, permanent missions, consular offices and honorary consulates within the scope of his competence;

• 13)

  To prepare the Annual Report of his department;

• 14)

  To be part of the Advisory Council of the SRECI and attend its meetings;

• 15)

  To submit for consideration of the Secretary of State the proposal of the strategic plan of his area;

• 16)

  To coordinate and supervise the execution of the activities that are carried out by the diplomatic missions;

• 17)

  To sign the documents relating to the exercise of his powers and those designated to him by delegation; and,

• 18)

  To issue instructions on matters within his competence to the heads of diplomatic representations, permanent missions or to the public servants who replace them during their absences.

The powers and obligations of the Undersecretary of International Cooperation and Promotion are:

• 1)

  To comply with and ensure compliance with the Constitution and the laws;

• 2)

  To substitute for the Secretary of State, in case of absence or legal impediment, observing where applicable the order he determines;

• 3)

  To propose to the Secretary of State the policies for the area of his competence and to ensure their execution;

• 4)

  To coordinate and supervise the execution of special programs that the Secretary of State drives and promotes;

• 5)

  To inform the Secretary of State of the matters submitted to his knowledge;

• 6)

  To ensure that his actions are compatible with those of the other Undersecretariats and to coordinate with them on matters of shared interest;

• 7)

  To coordinate and supervise the activity of the General Directorates or other departments that are assigned to him;

• 8)

  To submit to the Secretary of State the draft initiatives of law or decrees, as well as the draft regulations and agreements in matters within his competence;

• 9)

  To make studies on the organization of the administrative units of his department and to propose rationalization measures that are appropriate;

• 10)

  To resolve matters delegated to him by the Secretary of State;

• 11)

  To represent the SRECI in the acts that the Secretary determines and to participate, where applicable, in national and international forums and events in matters relating to the subjects that are the competence of the administrative units under his responsibility;

• 12)

  To propose to the Secretary of State, the opening and organization of embassies, permanent missions, consular offices and honorary consulates, within the scope of his competence;

• 13)

  To prepare the Annual Report of his department;

• 14)

  To be part of the Advisory Council of the SRECI and attend its meetings;

• 15)

  To submit for consideration of the Secretary of State the proposal of the strategic plan of his area;

• 16)

  To sign the documents relating to the exercise of his powers and those designated to him by delegation; and,

• 17)

  To issue instructions on matters within his competence to the heads of diplomatic representations, permanent missions and consular offices or to the public servants who replace them during their absences.

The powers and obligations of the Undersecretary of Consular and Migratory Affairs are:

• 1)

  To comply with and ensure compliance with the Constitution and the laws;

• 2)

  To substitute for the Secretary of State, in case of absence or legal impediment, observing where applicable the order he determines;

• 3)

  To propose to the Secretary of State the policies for the area of his competence and to ensure their execution;

• 4)

  To coordinate and supervise the execution of special programs that the Secretary of State drives and promotes;

• 5)

  To inform the Secretary of State of the matters submitted to his knowledge;

• 6)

  To ensure that his actions are compatible with those of the other Undersecretariats and to coordinate with them on matters of shared interest;

• 7)

  To coordinate and supervise the activity of the General Directorates or other departments that are assigned to him;

• 8)

  To submit to the Secretary of State the draft initiatives of law or decrees, as well as the draft regulations and agreements in matters within his competence;

• 9)

  To make studies on the organization of the administrative units of his department and to propose rationalization measures that are appropriate;

• 10)

  To resolve matters delegated to him by the Secretary of State;

• 11)

  To represent the SRECI in the acts that the Secretary determines and to participate, where applicable, in national and international forums and events in matters relating to the subjects that are the competence of the administrative units under his responsibility;

• 12)

  To propose to the Secretary of State, the opening, closure and organization of consular offices and honorary consulates, within the scope of his competence;

• 13)

  To prepare the Annual Report of his department;

• 14)

  To be part of the Advisory Council of the SRECI and attend its meetings;

• 15)

  To submit for consideration of the Secretary of State the proposal of the strategic plan of his area;

• 16)

  To coordinate and supervise the execution of the activities that are carried out by the consular offices, ensuring compliance with the observance of good treatment and respect for the dignity of fellow citizens who come to expose their situation to those departments;

• 17)

  To sign the documents relating to the exercise of his powers and those designated to him by delegation;

• 18)

  To issue instructions on matters within his competence to the heads of diplomatic representations, permanent missions and consular offices or to the public servants who replace them during their absences; and,

• 19)

  To establish intergovernmental and intersectoral coordination between the organizations with responsibility for Honduran migrants and between those and non-governmental and international organizations for the protection and defense of the human rights of migrants and their families.

The General Secretariat is responsible for the communication of the SRECI, having functions as a notary in accordance with Law and tasked with taking administrative measures and issuing the necessary orders, with the following powers:

• 1)

  To assist the Secretary of State and the Undersecretaries of State;

• 2)

  To receive the requests and petitions presented to the Office and to keep the corresponding record for the control and custody of the files;

• 3)

  To ensure that pending matters are dispatched within the established deadlines;

• 4)

  To keep the record of the decrees and agreements that are issued on matters of the Department;

• 5)

  To keep the record of official correspondence and direct it to the appropriate recipient;

• 6)

  To maintain the general archive of the Office;

• 7)

  To authorize the signature of the Secretary or Undersecretaries of State in the measures, agreements or resolutions that they issue;

• 8)

  To notify the interested parties of the measures or resolutions and in their case to issue certifications and reason the documents;

• 9)

  To transcribe to the interested parties the agreements that are issued on matters of the Department;

• 10)

  To resolve in matters delegated to him by the Secretary of State;

• 11)

  To periodically inform his superiors of the matters submitted to his knowledge;

• 12)

  To represent the SRECI in the acts that the Secretary or Undersecretaries determine;

• 13)

  To coordinate and supervise the activity of the departments that are assigned to him;

• 14)

  To be part of the Commission of the Diplomatic and Consular Scale;

• 15)

  To maintain the book to perform the official act of registration of the officials who hold the positions of Secretary and Undersecretaries of State of the SRECI, to grant the honorary title of Ambassador;

• 16)

  To draw up the oath-taking minutes for the swearing in of the Heads of Mission of the State of Honduras who will serve abroad;

• 17)

  To prepare the parchment of the Heads of Mission and the patent letter of the Heads of Consular Office;

• 18)

  To communicate and channel through diplomatic channels the files of a judicial nature, coming from the Honorable Supreme Court of Justice of Honduras or foreign justice bodies, such as: judicial communications containing letters rogatory and exhortations, letters rogatory, writs of habeas corpus, international judicial assistance and international judicial cooperation in criminal matters, maintaining due discretion due to the importance of the issues;

• 19)

  To be part of the Commission on Special Visa Regime Consulted;

• 20)

  To receive requests for diplomatic and official passports from public employees and officials;

• 21)

  To attend requests for the issuance of certifications, naturalization certificates and passports of files found in the Central Archive;

• 22)

  To process requests for exemptions that Honduran diplomats present upon completion of their mission in the country before which they were accredited, of their household goods and those authorized by Law;

• 23)

  To request the return of diplomatic and official passports that are used improperly by their holders;

• 24)

  To sign certifications of validity of international conventions and treaties;

• 25)

  To communicate extradition requests to the Supreme Court of Justice presented by the requesting or requested State, which are under the legal protection of an international treaty subscribed and ratified by the State of Honduras. To give corresponding processing before the judicial and administrative authorities with respect to due process to ensure the result of criminal action and vice versa;

• 26)

  To forward to the Secretariat of Finance the requests for exemptions presented by foreign diplomats accredited in the country, on the basis of the principles of reciprocity and rank of the petitioner;

• 27)

  To analyze the files and reports presented by the competent Department of the National Migration Institute, on the requests for entry of foreigners under the consulted visa regime, with which the Merit Commission is formed;

• 28)

  To issue favorable or unfavorable opinions together with the National Migration Institute and the Secretariat of Defense on each of the requests for entry for foreigners under the consulted visa regime;

• 29)

  To process requests for consular visas;

• 30)

  To sign the legalization of official documents issued by the bodies of the State through authentication or apostille, as applicable;

• 31)

  To authorize, keep a record and decide on the measures of the official seals used in the SRECI, which must be standardized; and,

• 32)

  Such other matters as the Law confers on it.

The General Secretariat has charge of the following departments:

• 1)

  General Directorate of Legal Services;

• 2)

  Unit of Administrative Assistance;

• 3)

  Unit of Legalization, Certification and Translation;

• 4)

  Unit of the General Archive;

• 5)

  Unit of Transparency; and,

• 6)

  Unit of Correspondence.

The General Directorate of Legal Services is responsible for the support, advice and technical-legal assistance of the SRECI; and for the provision of legal representation and prosecution services in lawsuits against the SRECI in administrative and labor matters in coordination with the Attorney General of the Republic. Likewise, it shall cooperate in the defense of the State of Honduras in cases of international claims.

The General Directorate of Legal Services has the following Departments under its charge:

• 1)

  Legal Affairs Department;

• 2)

  Department of International Legal Cooperation; and,

• 3)

  Department of Legal Defense and Advocacy.

The Legal Affairs Department has the following functions:

• 1)

  Provide legal support and advice to the head of SRECI regarding the various petitions, administrative claims and/or remedies submitted to its knowledge and jurisdiction, prior to the issuance of an Administrative Resolution;

• 2)

  Provide legal assistance on matters submitted to its knowledge;

• 3)

  Draft and review contracts entered into between SRECI and private parties, whether natural or juridical persons, and in case of disagreement, issue its legal opinion;

• 4)

  Draft and review bills, regulations, administrative acts, or other documents required to be issued by SRECI;

• 5)

  Prepare reports on administrative actions performed by the General Directorate of Legal Services;

• 6)

  Participate in the appraisal commission for the processes detailed in the State Contracting Law and its Regulations, which SRECI intends to undertake;

• 7)

  Prepare opinions, legal opinions, and reports on internal administrative matters that are requested of it;

• 8)

  Maintain and keep an updated inventory of SRECI's internal legislation, as well as publications that appear in the Official Gazette, which have relation with the Institution and the country; and,

• 9)

  Participate in discharge hearings related to personnel proceedings.

The Department of International Legal Cooperation has the following functions:

• 1)

  Transfer to the competent entities foreign sentences and letters rogatory that are received by SRECI through the Diplomatic or Consular Representations or national consulates accredited abroad or foreign missions accredited in the country;

• 2)

  Forward to the requested State through diplomatic channels or the designated central authority the requests for judicial assistance sent by the Courts and Tribunals of the Republic, the Secretariats of State, or competent entities;

• 3)

  Channel requests for the transfer of prisoners, to facilitate the social rehabilitation of Honduran persons deprived of liberty abroad, for which the purpose is to allow the completion of their sentence in the country, in accordance with bilateral prisoner transfer agreements subscribed by Honduras with other countries. In the same manner, facilitate the processing of requests for the transfer of foreigners who are serving sentences for crimes committed in Honduras;

• 4)

  Transmit letters rogatory and exhortations, letters of request, commissions, requests for reciprocal judicial assistance to national judicial organs and to other States; and,

• 5)

  Create and update the registry of letters rogatory, exhortations, international judicial assistance, extraditions, and prisoner transfers that are processed.

The Department of Legal Defense and Advocacy has the following functions:

• 1)

  Legally defend the interests of the State of Honduras in representation of SRECI in the various administrative, labor, and judicial proceedings that correspond, in coordination with the General Prosecutor's Office of the Republic of Honduras;

• 2)

  Monitor the procedural actions of the judicial organs and the parties in each and every one of the claims brought against the State of Honduras in representation of SRECI, whose defense has been assigned to the Prosecutor;

• 3)

  Maintain a registry of actions and claims presented against SRECI; and,

• 4)

  Prepare reports on the actions performed by the General Directorate of Legal Services in proceedings filed before the competent Courts and Tribunals of the Republic.

The Administrative Assistance Unit has the following functions:

• 1)

  Receive and forward administrative claims that are presented;

• 2)

  Draft administrative orders, decrees, resolutions, and certifications related to administrative proceedings filed before SRECI;

• 3)

  Update the notices board of the General Secretariat's office;

• 4)

  Process requests that State institutions make in administrative matters;

• 5)

  Attend to requests related to Visas of Diplomatic, Official, and Special Residence for foreign diplomats and officers of International Organizations and their dependents;

• 6)

  Process requests for diplomatic and official passports in cases that correspond;

• 7)

  Maintain the registry of diplomatic and official passports issued by SRECI;

• 8)

  Assist the General Secretariat in all administrative functions that it requests;

• 9)

  Maintain custody of the Registry Book of Secretaries and Undersecretaries of State to whom the honorary title of Ambassador will be granted;

• 10)

  Maintain custody of diplomatic or official passports of persons commissioned due to improper use of the same;

• 11)

  Process requests for migratory facilities and visa-free entry required by State institutions, International Organizations accredited in the country, Diplomatic Missions and Consular Offices, and others when appropriate;

• 12)

  Maintain control and send the resolution to the corresponding consular representation of visa approval consulted;

• 13)

  Process requests for consular visas of foreign nationals of countries classified in the "B" category with or without consultation, in accordance with Agreement No. 009-SG-2016; and,

• 14)

  Assist the General Secretariat in all administrative functions that are assigned.

The Unit of Legalization, Certification, and Translation is divided into the Sections of Translation, Authentications, and Apostilles that have the following functions:

• 1)

  Legalize documents originating in Honduras that will have effect abroad and those from other countries that must produce effect in Honduras in compliance with the Hague Convention that governs Apostille;

• 2)

  Legalize the signatures of public documents authorized by diplomatic or consular officials of Honduras that must have effect in the country;

• 3)

  Maintain the registry of signatures of diplomatic or consular officials of Honduras who exercise the notarial function by virtue of law;

• 4)

  Maintain the registry of signatures of officials or employees authorized to issue public documents that have effect abroad;

• 5)

  Manage and implement the system of authentications and apostilles;

• 6)

  Classify and distribute documents entered in the authentication and apostille system;

• 7)

  Review, correct, and approve the translation of official and private documents of an administrative nature;

• 8)

  Review and approve the translation of official documents;

• 9)

  Manage and implement the translation system;

• 10)

  Classify and distribute documents entered in the translation system; and,

• 11)

  Translate documents sent by the various State Institutions and those issued by SRECI.

The General Archive Unit has the following functions:

• 1)

  Custody the historical and general documentation of SRECI;

• 2)

  Receive documentation generated in the various departments of SRECI, subject to the specifications in the basic standards for documentary transfer;

• 3)

  Respond to requests for search of documents required by the various departments of SRECI or by national and international researchers, in accordance with the processes established in the Transparency and Access to Public Information Law;

• 4)

  Classify and organize documentation following best international practices and established standards;

• 5)

  Inventory and catalog documentation sent to it for filing;

• 6)

  Maintain a digital archive of the information contained in the documents;

• 7)

  Clean and restore documents in its custody;

• 8)

  Perform the purging or expungement of documentation that has lost its value or concluded its legal term of validity;

• 9)

  Identify and codify the various documentary funds; and,

• 10)

  Advise the Directorates and other SRECI entities on the composition and implementation of their filing systems.

The Transparency Unit has the following functions:

• 1)

  Gather and disseminate public information from SRECI in accordance with what is established in the Transparency and Access to Public Information Law and its Regulation;

• 2)

  Maintain and update the Transparency Portal through periodic compilation of information generated by SRECI;

• 3)

  Receive and dispatch requests for access to public information based on the Law;

• 4)

  Facilitate the necessary procedures for private parties in the presentation of information requests;

• 5)

  Maintain a registry and follow up on requests for access to public information, their results, and costs;

• 6)

  Custody, control, and guarantee the protection of files and archives of public information requests;

• 7)

  Develop the manual of processes, procedures, and forms of the unit;

• 8)

  Apply specific criteria in matters of classification and preservation of administrative documents, as well as the organization of archives;

• 9)

  Disseminate among SRECI public servants the benefits of proper management of public information and its proper preservation;

• 10)

  Ensure compliance with the classification of reserved or confidential information of SRECI;

• 11)

  Report quarterly to the Secretary of State and to the Institute of Access to Public Information on requests for information access and when required by both;

• 12)

  Request from the corresponding Department, Directorate, or Unit with due notice the information necessary to respond to requests received;

• 13)

  Receive citizen complaints for presumption of irregular acts by Institution public servants and provide appropriate processing; and,

• 14)

  Collaborate in all matters concerning transparency, accountability, strengthening of the integrity system, protection of personal data, access to public information, and habeas data.

The Correspondence Unit has the following functions:

• 1)

  Receive and send internal and external correspondence;

• 2)

  Distribute internal and external correspondence;

• 3)

  Control, classify, and file internal and external correspondence; and,

• 4)

  Maintain control of Institution correspondence according to the method that is established.

The Diplomatic Cabinet is the consultation and advisory organ of the Secretary of State and shall be comprised of former Foreign Ministers and career ambassadors designated by the head of SRECI when special circumstances or emergencies exist or when their experience and knowledge are required.

The Diplomatic Cabinet has the following functions:

• 1)

  Advise the Secretary of State in the economic, social, and political sphere for decision-making in the execution of foreign policy;

• 2)

  Address consultations on specific topics determined by the Secretary of State;

• 3)

  Attend meetings of the Advisory Council of SRECI when required;

• 4)

  Execute specific functions delegated by the Secretary and Undersecretaries of State; and,

• 5)

  Participate in the Committees of Decorations, Approval, and Candidatures of Honduras when designated for such purpose by the Secretary of State.

The General Directorate of Protocol and Diplomatic State Ceremonial is responsible for regulating and supervising compliance with State Protocol and Ceremonial norms and customs and providing assistance to the head of SRECI and the Presidency of the Republic.

The General Directorate of Protocol and Diplomatic State Ceremonial shall have under its charge the following units:

• 1)

  Diplomatic Ceremonial Unit;

• 2)

  Protocol Unit; and,

• 3)

  Privileges and Immunities Unit.

The Diplomatic Ceremonial Unit has the following functions:

• 1)

  Address matters relating to Diplomatic Ceremonial and relations with diplomatic missions and international organizations accredited before the Government of the Republic;

• 2)

  Ensure compliance with the appropriate conditions for international negotiation to occur, adapting norms to diplomatic practices and providing the clarity that should prevail in official acts;

• 3)

  Coordinate the ceremonies of decoration acts;

• 4)

  Coordinate the presentation of Copies of Style to the Secretary, Undersecretary of State, and the presentation of Credentials to the President of the Republic with the link at the Presidential House;

• 5)

  Prepare and update the Manual of Protocol and State Ceremonial for approval by the head of SRECI;

• 6)

  Receive and dispatch diplomatic correspondence;

• 7)

  Conduct with absolute confidentiality the procedures, admission, and management of approval of Ambassadors accredited before the Government of Honduras;

• 8)

  Serve as liaison between diplomatic missions and international organisms accredited before the Republic of Honduras and SRECI and with all other Directorate Protocol offices of Public Administration;

• 9)

  Address consultations from the diplomatic corps accredited in Honduras and Government officials regarding matters within its jurisdiction;

• 10)

  Prepare Credentials, Letters of Withdrawal, Cabinet Letters, and Copies of Style for Ambassadors and diplomats of Honduras who will be accredited abroad;

• 11)

  Maintain a detailed registry of curricula vitae of heads of mission accredited before the Government of Honduras as well as Honduran heads of mission accredited abroad;

• 12)

  Provide information to update the webpage regarding Diplomatic Ceremonial in coordination with the competent department; and,

• 13)

  Maintain inventory and control of existing national orders.

The Protocol Unit has the following functions:

• 1)

  Provide the support required by the head of SRECI and by the Presidency of the Republic in different acts and ceremonies;

• 2)

  Manage requests for overflight and landing permits, weapons carrying permits, and radio frequency, observing due discretion;

• 3)

  Manage and prepare military approvals accredited in Honduras;

• 4)

  Prepare diplomatic notes to request visas for official trips and for officials who will be accredited abroad;

• 5)

  Maintain the registry of the establishment of diplomatic relations;

• 6)

  Maintain a registry of officials from diplomatic missions, permanent missions, international organizations, and consular offices accredited in the country, whether resident or concurrent;

• 7)

  Process requests for admission of foreign consuls in Honduras;

• 8)

  Prepare notes of thanks, congratulation, condolence in case of death of a Head of State or Minister of Foreign Affairs of a friendly country, sympathies if natural disasters or accidents of great relevance occur, and mourning agreements in case of death of national officials who have rendered relevant services to the nation;

• 9)

  Coordinate protocol attentions in the Diplomatic Lounge of the airport and manage with the corresponding authority the protocol attention at other national airports; and,

• 10)

  Form and custody a file containing the national anthems, lyrics and music, as well as the shields and official flags of all countries.

The Directorate of Strategic Communication is responsible for the organization, coordination, and supervision of the implementation of the image, communication, and dissemination strategy of the activities of the SRECI.

The Directorate of Strategic Communication is subdivided into four units:

• 1)

  Digital Management Unit;

• 2)

  Editorial Management Unit;

• 3)

  Country Brand Management Unit; and,

• 4)

  Updated Information Management Unit.

The Digital Management Unit has the following functions:

• 1)

  Disseminate in digital media, the activities developed by the SRECI;

• 2)

  Collaborate with the departments of the SRECI in internal and external services for the dissemination of official information through electronic media;

• 3)

  Disseminate relevant information from each event that has been developed, using different digital media;

• 4)

  Promote and disseminate the advances and results of the programs promoted by the SRECI and its departments through digital communication media; and,

• 5)

  Keep updated the SRECI website and manage official social networks.

The Editorial Management Unit has the following functions:

• 1)

  Prepare press releases;

• 2)

  Organize and direct public appearance acts of SRECI officials, preserving and strengthening institutional image;

• 3)

  Disseminate relevant information from each event that has been developed from the different departments of the SRECI in the media;

• 4)

  Coordinate the conduct of surveys and opinion polls regarding SRECI activities;

• 5)

  Promote and disseminate the advances and results of the programs promoted by the SRECI and its departments;

• 6)

  Implement the institutional communication policy and strategies of the SRECI; and,

• 7)

  Gather from all departments of the SRECI the information with which the Annual Report of the Institution will be prepared.

The Country Brand Management Unit has the following functions: 1) Continuously prepare and distribute to Honduras' representations abroad and to the departments of the SRECI information about the Government's dissemination programs of the Republic; and, 2) Be the liaison for the SRECI on communication strategy issues related to Country Brand.

The Updated Information Management Unit has the following functions:

• 1)

  Conduct constant monitoring of information in national and international mass media;

• 2)

  Register and archive relevant information from national and international media, issuing necessary alerts to the respective authorities;

• 3)

  Maintain permanent relations with national and international media outlets and disseminate through them Honduran foreign policy, as well as the objectives, programs, and actions of the SRECI;

• 4)

  Preserve and update the photographic and video archives of the relevant activities of the SRECI;

• 5)

  Deliver to the Directorate General of Diplomatic Protocol and Ceremonial of State the graphic register of the ceremonies for presentation of Letters of Credence and Letters of Credence to be delivered to the respective missions; and,

• 6)

  Continuously prepare and distribute to Honduras' representations abroad and to the other departments of the SRECI information about the Government's programs and activities of the Republic and the relevant events of national life.

The Diplomatic Academy has the following functions:

• 1)

  Prepare study plans for the formation of human resources with a high analytical and technical level in matters of Diplomatic and Consular Law, International Law, Integration Law, International Relations, Development Cooperation, and Human Rights;

• 2)

  Prepare applicants for entry and promotion to the diplomatic and consular function for the realization of opposition examinations;

• 3)

  Design the academic curriculum of diplomas, courses, seminars, and workshops related to diplomatic and consular training;

• 4)

  Evaluate the training needs of SRECI human resources in order to make the corresponding adjustments to the curriculum;

• 5)

  Make use of technological means in order to train and update officials of the foreign service in different subject matters;

• 6)

  Proceed to conduct, together with the Diplomatic and Consular Personnel Classification Commission, calls for selecting candidates to enter the Foreign Service, indicating the requirements and verifying the suitability of the applicants, in accordance with instructions from the Secretary of State;

• 7)

  Conduct diplomas, courses, seminars, conferences, round-table discussions, among others, on national, regional, and international topics for the promotion of the country's interests abroad, extending to other institutions of public administration and the private sector, including higher education centers;

• 8)

  Conduct research programs and publications in the field of international studies, in consultation with the departments of the SRECI; and,

• 9)

  Follow up on cooperation agreements and academic assistance agreements signed with similar national and foreign institutions.

The Internal Audit Unit (UAI) depends on the Maximum Executive Authority of the entity and develops its assurance and advisory activities on the processes of internal control, risk management, and institutional governance for the purpose of issuing objective opinions and recommendations with added value, seeking the improvement of operations and the achievement of the entity's objectives.

The Internal Audit Unit (UAI) has the following functions:

• 1)

  Examine and evaluate the planning, organization, direction, and internal managerial or operational control;

• 2)

  Evaluate the effectiveness, efficiency, and economy with which human, material, and financial resources have been utilized and verify that they have been applied to authorized programs, activities, and purposes;

• 3)

  Effect partial or total subsequent control over the management and physical and financial progress of the different construction projects and the supply of goods and services that compromise the use of entity resources;

• 4)

  Examine the reliability, timeliness, and relevance of financial and operational information of the entity;

• 5)

  Conduct special audits or evaluations to verify legal compliance regarding the operations developed by any of the entity's departments, offices, or organs;

• 6)

  Examine the means to safeguard assets and the adequacy of procedures to verify the existence, ownership, and preservation thereof;

• 7)

  Report the results of its evaluations to the Maximum Executive Authority of the entity, with a copy to the Supreme Court of Accounts;

• 8)

  Report the progress of UAI activities and the result of follow-ups to the recommendations to the Maximum Executive Authority of the entity, to the Supreme Court of Accounts, and to the National Office for the Comprehensive Development of Internal Control (ONADICI); and,

• 9)

  Advise the Maximum Executive Authority of the entity, in its field of competence, without affecting its independence of judgment.

The Unit for Planning and Management Evaluation (UPEG) is responsible for the analysis and design of policies, programs, and projects of the SRECI, in accordance with public spending and investment policies and the guidelines officially established by the President of the Republic, including the coordination of the formulation of the Strategic Institutional Plan (PEI), framed within national priorities, Country Vision, and the Government Plan. It is also responsible for the preparation of Annual Operating Plans and medium and long-term operational programming in its areas of competence; the periodic evaluation of institutional execution under indicators of efficiency and effectiveness; the coordination of studies for the definition of spending and investment priorities for the annual budget draft and for the management of resources intended for the financing of projects that provide a view of financial sustainability of the SRECI; the formulation of technical standards for the design and operation of information and statistical systems; and the evaluation of Departments, Units, or Programs in charge of the SRECI, presenting the corresponding reports.

The UPEG has the following functions:

• 1)

  Analyze and design the objectives of institutional interest, programs, and projects of the SRECI, in accordance with public spending and investment policies established by the Executive Power;

• 2)

  Develop, define, and implement planning systems;

• 3)

  Coordinate the preparation, reformulation, and modification of strategic and operational plans with the different areas of the SRECI and submit them for approval to the Secretary of State;

• 4)

  Monitor the physical and financial execution of the annual operational plan and budget;

• 5)

  Incorporate the guidelines issued by the governing institutions to be incorporated within the operational and strategic plans of the SRECI;

• 6)

  Register the annual operational plan in the national information systems;

• 7)

  Prepare and submit reports of the physical and financial execution of the annual operational plan to the governing institutions of the Republic's budget;

• 8)

  Design and define, in coordination with the departments of the SRECI, operational programming of work objectives, in the short, medium, and long term in the different areas of its competence;

• 9)

  Coordinate together with the Budget Sub-management the preparation of the annual budget draft in accordance with the priorities established by the highest authorities;

• 10)

  Be the official liaison with the governing institutions of the processes within its competence;

• 11)

  Formulate technical standards for the design, implementation, operation, and control of information systems and statistics of the SRECI;

• 12)

  Periodically evaluate the progress of compliance with the goals based on the annual operational plan and institutional strategic plan and define performance and management indicators;

• 13)

  Design management indicators to evaluate the compliance of functions and goals established in the different departments, and propose the corrective measures that may be warranted;

• 14)

  Define together with the Computing Unit the information systems necessary to guarantee adequate control of the execution of the plans and activities of the SRECI's departments; and,

• 15)

  Conduct and verify in the national information systems the physical and budgetary modifications.

The Modernization Unit (UDEM) is responsible for coordinating actions aimed at designing, executing, and evaluating institutional reform measures of the SRECI, monitoring their execution, in accordance with the established parameters. Likewise, it is a strategic body that depends on the Secretary of State, whose main function is to ensure quality in the execution of institutional processes, both administrative and productive, for the planning, organization, direction, control, and evaluation of the SRECI.

The UDEM has the following functions:

• 1)

  Coordinate actions aimed at designing, executing, and evaluating modern and productive institutional reforms, in accordance with the laws;

• 2)

  Monitor the execution of institutional reforms in accordance with the plans of the different departments of the SRECI;

• 3)

  Design, develop, and supervise the implementation of modernization projects including those originated by non-governmental and international assistance in the SRECI;

• 4)

  Control the application of technical standards and procedures regarding the quality of the institution and make pertinent recommendations for the improvement of processes;

• 5)

  Promote training on quality standards and techniques;

• 6)

  Issue reports and provide support on matters of organization, processes, and procedures;

• 7)

  Design and validate function and procedure manuals in coordination with each of the departments of the SRECI;

• 8)

  Develop proposals to improve the organization and functions of the SRECI;

• 9)

  Coordinate the digitalization of official processes of the SRECI;

• 10)

  Promote the standardization of official processes of the SRECI and maintain its technical archives;

• 11)

  Develop proposals for internal regulations, modify and review existing ones in order to be presented to the superior authority for its approval and implementation; and,

• 12)

  Serve as liaison with the governing institutions for the modernization of the processes of public entities.

The General Directors shall have the following common powers:

• 1)

  Coordinate, program, organize, direct, control, and evaluate the performance of the work assigned to the General Directorate under their charge;

• 2)

  Agree with their hierarchical superior regarding the attention, study, and resolution of the matters that are within the competence of the General Directorate under their charge;

• 3)

  Formulate the budget draft and the Annual Operational Plan (POA) of the General Directorate under their charge, in coordination with the Budget Sub-management and the UPEG in accordance with the applicable provisions;

• 4)

  Coordinate their activities with the other General Directorates, Directorates, Departments, or administrative units, when so required, for the better functioning of the SRECI, ensuring the development of positions in the bilateral and multilateral spheres, promoting political interaction, cooperation, the country's image, and Honduras' economic profile abroad;

• 5)

  Prepare official correspondence, diplomatic notes directed to foreign representations accredited in Honduras, as well as resolutions and agreements of the superior authority when so ordered or delegated and those issued in accordance with the powers that correspond to them, transmitting them through official channels;

• 6)

  Prepare and keep updated in coordination with the UDEM, the procedure manual of the General Directorate under their charge;

• 7)

  Participate in commissions, committees, or other collegial bodies when so established by law or as directed by the Secretary of State;

• 8)

  Provide the collaboration that may be required by other departments, directorates, administrative units of the SRECI, or by other departments or entities of the Public Administration, within the scope of their powers, in accordance with the applicable provisions and the guidelines established for such purpose by the Secretary of State;

• 9)

  Participate in negotiation when corresponding and according to their specific powers, in the promotion, updating, and monitoring of interinstitutional agreements, with the support of the competent directorates or departments of the SRECI, as well as other government departments;

• 10)

  Authorize, instruct, and oversee the exercise of the budget allocated to the General Directorate under their charge, in accordance with the applicable legal provisions;

• 11)

  Participate in seminars, conferences, symposiums, colloquia, and congresses on matters of their competence; and,

• 12)

  Develop proposals to create, reorganize, or eliminate units of the General Directorate under their charge and submit them for consideration of their hierarchical superior.

The Undersecretariat of Foreign Policy shall be in charge of:

• 1)

  General Directorate of Foreign Policy;

• 2)

  National Commission on Sovereignty and Borders; and,

• 3)

  General Directorate of Legal, Treaty, and Convention Affairs.

The General Directorate of Foreign Policy is responsible for supporting the Secretary and Undersecretaries of State in the coordination, execution, evaluation and monitoring of the State's foreign policy, as well as in the conduct of bilateral, regional and multilateral relations established by Honduras.

The General Directorate of Foreign Policy is in charge of the following Directorates:

• 1)

  Directorate of Bilateral Policy;

• 2)

  Directorate of Multilateral Policy; and,

• 3)

  Directorate of Regional Integration.

The Directorate of Bilateral Policy has the following functions:

• 1)

  Direct matters related to the political aspects of Honduras' relations with other States. In this sense, it suggests the orientation of foreign policy toward each of them with which bilateral relations are maintained, taking into account the political, economic, social, technological, scientific and cultural dimensions;

• 2)

  Participate in the planning, design, execution and evaluation of international action programs, taking into consideration the interests and benefits for the State of Honduras;

• 3)

  Promote and provide follow-up from a political perspective to all matters of interest to Honduras at the international level through bilateral relations; and elaborate proposals for Honduras' positions and, where applicable, conduct negotiations in an effective manner and in accordance with the country's interests;

• 4)

  Elaborate political analyses and reports, as well as formulate bilateral policy opinions on matters such as government changes, cabinets, social and political movements with international repercussions and significant dates for each country and coordinate with the directorates or administrative units when appropriate, the preparation and sending of diplomatic notes;

• 5)

  Contribute, when requested by the competent areas of SRECI, to the formulation of bilateral and regional cooperation policies on topics of the new multilateral agenda;

• 6)

  Coordinate the collection, updating information for its analysis, conclusions and recommendations, regarding the internal situation of countries and their positions to generate foreign policy proposals, as well as relevant figures in those countries, which could favor Honduras' position in certain areas;

• 7)

  Monitor compliance with the instructions issued to diplomatic representations by the General Directorate of Foreign Policy, on matters within its competence, evaluating their results and making appropriate adjustments;

• 8)

  Investigate, analyze, synthesize and document information on the current state of Honduras' relationship with a given country and its participation in International Organizations, identifying those actions or topics that generate follow-up and that are pending or in the process of discussion in order to structure a document containing recommendations and opinions;

• 9)

  Prepare binational meetings for political consultations at the presidential, ministerial or technical delegation level, between Honduras and another State and provide follow-up to the agreements reached therein;

• 10)

  Reception, analysis and preparation of diplomatic correspondence in the field of diplomatic relations, generated by and for the Foreign Service, diplomatic corps, international organizations and governmental and private institutions of the country, as well as internally within SRECI;

• 11)

  Propose, based on an opinion, the establishment of relations between Honduras and another State, based on the convenience that would exist for both Governments to initiate relations of friendship within the framework of mutual understanding and cooperation between both peoples;

• 12)

  Propose, based on an opinion, the opening or closing of diplomatic missions or consular or commercial offices, as well as the definition of concurrent jurisdictions in coordination with the corresponding directorates or departments;

• 13)

  Plan, program, develop, supervise and evaluate activities related to the arrangement, preparation, holding and follow-up, from a political perspective, of high-level visits, in coordination with the competent administrative units of SRECI and the dependencies and entities of the Public Administration; and,

• 14)

  Participate, in coordination with the corresponding administrative units of SRECI, in the preparation of evaluations regarding the internal organization of Honduras' diplomatic representations abroad, to address their needs and requirements in matters of human and financial resources.

The Directorate of Multilateral Policy has the following functions:

• 1)

  Propose to the superior authorities the general guidelines regarding Honduras' position and matters to be negotiated in international organizations, multilateral consultation and permanent concertation mechanisms in which representation is maintained and execute the instructions received;

• 2)

  Coordinate Honduras' participation in meetings convened within the framework of international organizations, the mechanisms indicated in the previous numeral and those of political concertation, issuing pertinent instructions to our missions;

• 3)

  Coordinate with Honduras' representations before international organizations the execution of the instructions sent, as well as the timely submission of accreditations for Honduras' delegations in each case;

• 4)

  Conduct the studies and actions necessary to promote Honduras' initiatives in international organizations and multilateral mechanisms;

• 5)

  Present and promote the guidelines established by the Committee on Candidatures and transmit our intention to the organizations and multilateral concertation mechanisms as well as consider and grant support to the requests formulated by other countries in favor of their candidates, based on the strictest reciprocity;

• 6)

  Maintain an updated record in coordination with the Administrative Management of compliance with the payment of contributions, allocations and quotas of Honduras before international organizations within its competence; as well as provide follow-up and support, if requested, of the commitments of other dependencies and entities of the Public Administration, in permanent contact with Honduras' representations abroad;

• 7)

  Analyze, channel and provide follow-up before the competent national authorities of requests made by different international organizations;

• 8)

  Integrate, channel and provide follow-up jointly with the institutions that comprise commissions or inter-institutional groups on human rights, the petitions made by international human rights organizations regarding reports, responses to complaints, precautionary measures and requests for information against the State of Honduras, derived from alleged violations of human rights in our country;

• 9)

  Investigate, analyze, synthesize and document relevant information and of interest regarding national and/or international figures or organizations in order to inform the most relevant data about them; and,

• 10)

  Propose, based on an opinion, the opening or closing of permanent missions before international organizations, in coordination with the corresponding directorates or departments.

The Directorate of Regional Integration has the following functions:

• 1)

  Propose to the superior authorities the general guidelines regarding Honduras' position and matters to be negotiated in regional organizations and other similar mechanisms;

• 2)

  Coordinate participation jointly with other directorates or departments of SRECI that have relation to its competence, of the meetings convened within the framework of international, regional organizations, and the mechanisms of consultation and regional concertation;

• 3)

  Coordinate with Honduras' representations before the organizations, mechanisms and forums of regional integration, the execution of the instructions sent as well as the timely submission of the accreditation of our delegations in each case;

• 4)

  Provide follow-up, conduct analysis and prepare reports within the framework of topics developed in regional organizations; prepare technical support documents for government officials who participate in meetings of a Presidential and Ministerial character, formulating the corresponding strategies as well as the preparation of the profiles of organizations and their authorities;

• 5)

  Propose to the Secretary of State the projects relating to the integration and development of the region, as well as the actions and strategies for their implementation and follow-up;

• 6)

  Provide follow-up to activity calendars within its areas of competence;

• 7)

  Conduct monitoring of regional and international current events news regarding integration in coordination with the Directorate of Strategic Communication;

• 8)

  Draft diplomatic correspondence requested by the competent authority regarding matters concerning organizations, mechanisms and forums of regional integration;

• 9)

  Coordinate and support the participation of the dependencies and entities of the Public Administration in SICA meetings, as well as in the signing of agreements or conventions and other activities that derive from the monitoring and execution of regional integration programs and projects; and,

• 10)

  Promote in coordination with the Directorate of Private Cooperation for Development, the participation of the private sector and other sectors of society in the programs and projects of regional integration.

The National Commission for Sovereignty and Borders is responsible for preserving and strengthening Honduras' territorial sovereignty by promoting and defending national interests through the delimitation, demarcation, signalization and border maintenance of terrestrial, maritime, aerial and fluvial spaces; likewise to provide follow-up to compliance with treaties and conventions regarding limits and co-sovereignty.

The National Commission for Sovereignty and Borders shall be headed by a President with the rank of General Director. This Commission shall have the following directorates: 1) Special Directorate of Sovereignty; and, 2) Directorate of Border Demarcation and Maintenance.

The Special Directorate of Sovereignty has the following functions:

• 1)

  Strengthen the sovereign rights of the country by carrying out all necessary actions to that end;

• 2)

  Formulate, execute and evaluate everything related to the sovereignty and borders of the State of Honduras, developing the studies that lead to the defense of our sovereign rights;

• 3)

  Participate in the defense of Honduras' interests to protect territorial integrity and national sovereignty, and for such purpose shall coordinate what concerns contentious cases that affect the territory and borders of the State before international juridical instances and shall act in maritime and terrestrial delimitations and other border issues and in the negotiations that are carried out;

• 4)

  Participate in events and meetings with international organizations related to the topic;

• 5)

  Foster support and assistance in general to the President of the National Commission for Sovereignty and Borders;

• 6)

  Provide support to other public institutions in the protection of Hondurans residing in the country's border zones;

• 7)

  Represent and participate in conferences, meetings and assemblies related to matters of limits, sovereignty, Law of the Sea and international waters;

• 8)

  Support the management of matters related to environmental issues that involve aspects of sovereignty and border areas;

• 9)

  Plan and program international negotiations regarding maritime delimitation;

• 10)

  Execute agreements, treaties, conventions, sentences and awards within its competence; and,

• 11)

  Coordinate with the Head of the Secretariat of State the formation of qualified technical personnel for the defense of our sovereign rights with the Diplomatic Academy and Centers of Higher Education for the obtaining of scholarships in countries with experience in the topic.

The Directorate of Border Demarcation and Maintenance has the following functions:

• 1)

  Demarcate, signalize and provide maintenance to the terrestrial, maritime and fluvial borders of the State of Honduras designing and executing actions founded on planning and programming;

• 2)

  Provide support and technical assistance to the President of the National Commission for Sovereignty and Borders;

• 3)

  Participate and execute agreements, treaties and conventions regarding border demarcation, signalization and maintenance;

• 4)

  Represent the country in conferences, meetings and assemblies related to demarcation matters; and,

• 5)

  Certify the maps of Honduras based on international agreements, awards and sentences within the geographic scope prior to their publication.

The General Directorate of Legal Affairs, Treaties and Conventions is responsible for providing advice in the processes of negotiation, formulation and signature of international instruments and likewise for the analyses regarding adhesions, the formulation of reservations by the State in certain legal instruments, denunciations, terminations, amendments, exchanges, deposits, observing the national and international legal system. It is responsible for the custody of the archive of international instruments signed by the State of Honduras, as well as for the administration of the database of treaties in order to maintain updated information on the rights and obligations acquired by the State.

The General Directorate of Legal Affairs, Treaties and Conventions has the following functions:

• 1)

  Carry out activities related to the negotiation, signature, approval, publication, ratification, adhesion, validity, denunciation, termination, exchange, deposit, amendments, reservations, correction of errors and other matters concerning treaties, conventions, agreements, accords, protocols, declarations, acts, pacts and other international instruments, bilateral and multilateral of which Honduras is a party;

• 2)

  Advise the Secretary and Undersecretaries of State, in the negotiation and signature of projects of international instruments proposed by international organizations and diplomatic missions accredited in our country, as well as in the initiatives developed in this General Directorate;

• 3)

  Elaborate proposals for international instruments to be signed with other countries and international organizations in areas of interest to Honduras, framed in the prescriptions of the national legal system, the principles of International Law, sentences and awards;

• 4)

  Issue opinions and judgments, founded on International Law and internal legislation, regarding projects of international instruments proposed by other countries and international organizations to the government of Honduras, in order to obtain and facilitate external cooperation;

• 5)

  Act as liaison with the legal dependencies of other state institutions in order to reach consensus on technical and legal opinions, to consolidate a country position in relation to projects of international instruments under negotiation and on matters of International Law;

• 6)

  Elaborate for consideration by the Head of the Secretariat of State the legislative initiatives, which shall be submitted to the approval of the National Congress;

• 7)

  Elaborate the Instruments of Ratification, Adhesion or Acceptance, as applicable, and as the final and definitive expression of the will of the State of Honduras to bind itself by an international instrument, prior to its respective deposit or exchange, as the conclusion of the procedure for entry into force;

• 8)

  Elaborate Full Powers by means of which a government official is authorized to sign an International Instrument in the name and representation of the State of Honduras;

• 9)

  Elaborate the Credentials, which accredit government officials, so that they act in representation of the State of Honduras, in conferences, meetings, assemblies or forums of an international character;

• 10)

  Maintain custody and preserve the international instruments signed by Honduras and that form part of the historical patrimony, jointly with the General Archive of SRECI;

• 11)

  Maintain an updated record of data in chronological order, by country and subject matter of the international instruments signed and ratified by Honduras;

• 12)

  Provide formal consultations submitted by Honduras' missions abroad, diplomatic missions accredited in our country, international organizations, other governmental institutions and the general public in accordance with the Law; and,

• 13)

  Elaborate studies of comparative law and the national legal system, in function of evaluating the impact of international treaties or conventions in our internal legal system.

The Undersecretariat of International Cooperation and Promotion shall be in charge of: 1) General Directorate of International Cooperation; and, 2) General Directorate of International Promotion.

The General Directorate of International Cooperation is responsible for coordinating the management of cooperation in its diverse modalities, in the bilateral, multilateral, South-South and private spheres, aligned with the objectives of national priorities in function of the country's sustainable development, observing proper inter-institutional coordination. Likewise, it is responsible for identifying and coordinating the offer of national cooperation toward third countries. It is also responsible for Coordinating the Network of Directors and Liaison Officers of International Cooperation (REDECIH), the request for scholarships from cooperating countries and their administration. Likewise, it is in charge of the administration and quarterly updating of the Cooperation Management Platform (PGC).

The General Directorate of International Cooperation is in charge of:

• 1)

  Directorate of Bilateral Cooperation;

• 2)

  Directorate of Multilateral Cooperation;

• 3)

  Directorate of Private Cooperation for Development; and,

• 4)

  Directorate of South-South and Triangular Cooperation.

The Directorate of Bilateral Cooperation has the following functions:

• 1)

  Recommend and execute national policies and strategies of bilateral cooperation;

• 2)

  Contribute to the design and implementation of the Development Cooperation Policy on bilateral cooperation topics with a sectoral dynamic;

• 3)

  Manage the offer and demand of development cooperation based on national priorities established in the Government's Strategic Plan, negotiating multi-year cooperation strategies;

• 4)

  Participate in the negotiations of bilateral cooperation treaties and conventions;

• 5)

  Propose the design of cooperation mechanisms and, where applicable, their financing;

• 6)

  Participate in technical committees for monitoring cooperation and development programs and projects, for which general guidelines shall be prepared, supporting the executing bodies;

• 7)

  Participate in the negotiation, processing and dissemination, providing the inputs derived from cooperation activities;

• 8)

  Advise on matters of international cooperation that are required by the competent areas of execution and conduct of bilateral policies;

• 9)

  Strengthen relations with agencies and countries that grant non-reimbursable bilateral cooperation and make the pertinent arrangements to obtain and manage the same, with the purpose of executing new programs and projects prioritized by the Government;

• 10)

  Update together with cooperating partners the information of active projects in the Cooperation Management Platform (PGC) in a dynamic of mutual accountability;

• 11)

  Review the programs and projects under execution of International Cooperation;

• 12)

  Prepare the profiles of organizations and important figures regarding bilateral cooperation;

• 13)

  Assist the General Director of International Cooperation; and,

• 14)

  Elaborate Quarterly Cooperation Reports for the knowledge of the superior authorities.

The Directorate of Multilateral Cooperation has the following functions:

• 1)

  To recommend and execute national policies and strategies of multilateral cooperation, participating in the negotiations of the corresponding treaties;

• 2)

  To contribute to the design and implementation of development cooperation policy in the matters of multilateral cooperation with a sectoral dynamic;

• 3)

  To manage the supply and demand of development cooperation based on national priorities established in the Government Strategic Plan;

• 4)

  To propose the design of cooperation mechanisms and, in their financing;

• 5)

  To provide accompaniment in matters of effectiveness of cooperation for sustainable development at the national and regional level;

• 6)

  To coordinate and manage the meetings of the Roundtable for Effectiveness of Cooperation for Sustainable Development of Honduras (MECEH);

• 7)

  To participate in the establishment of general guidelines for the formulation, monitoring and evaluation of programs and projects under execution, and to assist executing agencies in their preparation;

• 8)

  To participate in the negotiation, processing and dissemination, providing inputs derived from cooperation activities;

• 9)

  To advise on matters of international cooperation that may be required by the competent areas of direction and execution of multilateral policies, in coordination with the Directorate of Multilateral Policy and Honduras missions abroad;

• 10)

  To strengthen relations with multilateral cooperation organizations, ensuring the alignment of sectoral development policies with other multilateral agencies, especially within the framework of the United Nations System;

• 11)

  To prepare quarterly cooperation reports to submit to higher authorities;

• 12)

  To update the information of active projects on the Cooperation Management Platform (PGC) together with cooperating partners in a dynamic of mutual accountability;

• 13)

  To prepare the profiles of organisms and important individuals in matters of multilateral cooperation; and,

• 14)

  To maintain an updated registry in coordination with the Administrative Management of the fulfillment of payments of Honduras' contributions, apportionments and quotas to international organizations within its competence; as well as to follow up and provide support if requested, of the commitments of other dependencies and entities of the Public Administration, in permanent contact with Honduras representations abroad.

The Directorate of Private Cooperation for Development has the following functions:

• 1)

  To recommend and execute policies and strategies for development cooperation in matters of private cooperation with a sectoral dynamic;

• 2)

  To coordinate efforts to generate and involve new actors for development through the Public Private Alliance for Development (APPD);

• 3)

  To promote communication among the different Government instances, NGOs, private enterprise, national or international foundations, associations of municipalities, municipalities and international cooperation;

• 4)

  To develop and update a database of possible new private cooperating partners;

• 5)

  To coordinate the Network of Private Cooperation Links for Development;

• 6)

  To provide cooperation inputs for the various forums and meetings of authorities;

• 7)

  To orient government entities regarding private cooperation for development in response to national priorities as established in the Plan of Nation Vision of Country as well as in the Government Plan;

• 8)

  To coordinate and manage the supply and demand of development cooperation with private cooperators, civil society and Academia, as well as actions that facilitate the execution of processes within the framework of national priorities through cooperation between public and private entities for development;

• 9)

  To continuously train in the matters that fall within the directorate's competence, central Government personnel, cooperators and civil society in charge of non-reimbursable cooperation matters;

• 10)

  To identify together with the Foreign Service possible links and strategic alliances between State Secretariats and new private actors for development;

• 11)

  To review and analyze the project portfolio together with cooperators;

• 12)

  To participate in technical committees for project monitoring in private cooperation;

• 13)

  To participate under the coordination of the General Directorate of Legal Affairs, Treaties and Agreements, in the process of negotiating agreements framed within programs and projects of private cooperation; and,

• 14)

  To promote cooperation between national private institutions for development and trade of Honduras with other private institutions.

The Directorate of South-South and Triangular Cooperation has the following functions:

• 1)

  To recommend and execute development cooperation policies in matters of south-south and triangular cooperation;

• 2)

  To manage, design and update the catalog of south-south and triangular cooperation supply of Honduras, in accordance with the capacities and public and private national experiences;

• 3)

  To identify the demand for south-south cooperation with public entities in accordance with the objectives, strategy and national development plans;

• 4)

  To manage and jointly design with its counterpart in other countries, and with the support of the Honduras Foreign Service, the action path of the Mixed Commissions;

• 5)

  To promote strategies to seek new actors and partners of south-south and triangular cooperation, as well as financing funds to promote Honduras' south-south cooperation program;

• 6)

  To identify and select in coordination with the Sub-secretariat of Cooperation and International Promotion and with the General Directorate, the experiences that can be applied in the sectors of supply and demand of south-south cooperation, based on broad consultation of executing entities for their approval;

• 7)

  To follow up on the commitments acquired in matters of south-south and triangular cooperation in the various regional and international forums;

• 8)

  To enter and update information of south-south and triangular cooperation projects on the Cooperation Management Platform (PGC); and,

• 9)

  To register and update the data of the Integrated Ibero-American System on South-South and Triangular Cooperation (SIDICS).

The General Directorate of International Promotion is responsible for managing and promoting direct foreign investment, the opening of new markets for exports and stimulation of trade, as well as the promotion of tourism, culture and country image, observing due inter-institutional coordination; as well as the supervision and promotion of relations of friendship, commercial, cultural and scientific relations by embassies, permanent missions or offices and consular agencies.

The General Directorate of International Promotion has the following Directorates under its charge: 1) Directorate of International Promotion; and, 2) Directorate of Economic and Commercial Relations.

The Directorate of International Promotion has the following functions:

• 1)

  To promote Honduras commercial missions abroad and assist them in achieving their objectives, with particular emphasis on attracting direct foreign investment and sustained exports from Honduras abroad;

• 2)

  To promote in collaboration with the Foreign Service and entities and dependencies of the public sector, the realization of exploratory investment visits to Honduras focused on priority and strategic sectors;

• 3)

  To drive country image by participating in public, private, cultural and academic events, aimed at promoting economic activity and investment opportunities;

• 4)

  To plan workshops and seminars for the training and updating of the Foreign Service in matters of economic promotion, tourism, culture and country image; and,

• 5)

  To promote the national private sector by taking advantage of business, trade and investment opportunities and its integration into regional and world markets.

The Directorate of Economic and Commercial Relations has the following functions:

• 1)

  To recommend and execute foreign economic policy, by monitoring treaties and economic agreements signed by Honduras with different countries of the world, through the mechanisms that are created for such purpose;

• 2)

  To conduct an analysis of Honduras' commercial flows with different countries of the world;

• 3)

  To review the analyses of information sent by the Honduras Foreign Service, embassies and international organizations accredited in our country on economic and commercial matters;

• 4)

  To follow up in coordination with the Secretariat of Economic Development the economic and commercial agreements signed or under negotiation;

• 5)

  To develop technical support inputs for the country's participation in the different international organizations and mechanisms of Economic Integration, of which Honduras is a member;

• 6)

  To promote macroeconomic dialogues;

• 7)

  To participate in the negotiations of bilateral and multilateral agreements in economic matters, with the aim of strengthening cooperation in that framework; and,

• 8)

  To generate studies on the economic situation of other countries and their degree of complementarity with the national economy in order to design new strategies to develop economic cooperation.

The Sub-secretariat of Consular and Migratory Affairs shall have under its charge: 1) General Directorate of Consular Affairs; and, 2) General Directorate of Protection for Honduran Migrants.

The General Directorate of Consular Affairs is responsible for directing, coordinating, controlling and evaluating the application of the legal provisions in force for the proper functioning of the Consular Service in the provision of matters within its competence.

The General Directorate of Consular Affairs has under its charge:

• 1)

  Office of Consular Supervision;

• 2)

  Office of Consular Services;

• 3)

  Call Center ALHOVO2; and 4) Consular and Migratory Observatory.

The Office of Consular Supervision has the following functions: 1) To supervise the proper functioning of the consular service ensuring that adequate assistance is provided to Hondurans and that elementary norms of courtesy are observed to all those requiring services related to Honduras; likewise the application of the legal provisions in force; 2) To collaborate with the General Directorate in the induction of the Consular Corps for the knowledge and application of the legal provisions in force in notarial, civil registry, administrative and fiscal matters; 3) To process requests for special fiscal items and migratory documents; 4) To monitor the remittance of transfers by consular income and verify the reports of the actions and income from consular services; and, 5) To demand compliance with the presentation of bonds by officials and employees who will serve in the Foreign Service as Officers in charge of consular affairs and the filing of the same. Likewise, to supervise that the same remain in force during the period of their functions. ARTICLE 75: The Office of Consular Services has the following functions:

• 1)

  To create the necessary tools for the adequate provision of consular services;

• 2)

  To ensure that consular offices have due access to information systems and consultation for the provision of their services;

• 3)

  To plan annually together with the Foreign Service the supply of special fiscal items, migratory documents and necessary inputs to provide consular services;

• 4)

  To establish the quality parameters with which consular services must be provided;

• 5)

  To support the consular network in those special cases in obtaining information, documents or any other input necessary for the provision of services;

• 6)

  To participate in technical meetings related to the provision of consular services;

• 7)

  To carry out communications to the different diplomatic missions and/or consular offices abroad in relation to changes and new legal provisions;

• 8)

  To act as liaison with the National Registry of Persons and with the National Immigration Institute;

• 9)

  To resolve consultations sent by the consular network for the issuance of visas; and, 10) To maintain the registry of Honorary Consuls appointed by the competent authority and to follow up on the actions they carry out for the benefit of Honduras. ARTICLE 76: The Call Center ALHOVO2 has the following functions: 1) To attend and resolve consultations via telephone from Honduran migrants providing information and advice on the various requirements and procedures of consular services and protection for Honduran migrants; and, 2) To channel complaints made by Hondurans abroad to the competent authority.

The Consular and Migratory Observatory has the following functions:

• 1)

  To disseminate consular and migratory statistical information of interest to the general public;

• 2)

  To monitor the Consular Offices, the news both at national and international level and any other information of interest to authorities on migratory and consular matters for decision-making;

• 3)

  To collect, standardize, update and analyze information on a periodic and systematic basis related to consular and migratory variables; and,

• 4)

  To prepare statistical reports on consular and migratory matters of interest to the country.

The General Directorate of Protection for Honduran Migrants is the Technical Secretariat of the National Council for Protection of Honduran Migrants and executive agency of SRECI, in matters of migration.

The General Directorate of Protection for Honduran Migrants has under its charge: 1) Office of Protection for the Honduran Migrant (OPROHM); and, 2) Office of Assistance for the Returned Migrant (OFAMIR). ARTICLE 80: The Office of Protection for the Honduran Migrant (OPROHM) has the following functions:

• 1)

  To coordinate and follow up on the different processes of assistance and protection for Hondurans abroad, whether natural or legal persons that conduct activities through the consular offices directly or through their attached agencies before the authorities of the receiving State;

• 2)

  To design and execute consular protection programs that serve detained, imprisoned, hospitalized migrants or those in situations of calamity, guiding them regarding their human rights and advising them on labor, criminal, civil, migratory and administrative matters;

• 3)

  To recommend and execute a comprehensive migration policy for Hondurans abroad in order to protect their rights and interests;

• 4)

  To coordinate with the offices and consular agencies the follow-up of special cases of Honduran migrants in a state of vulnerability for their referral to the OFAMIR office;

• 5)

  To ensure that migrants are treated with respect, dignity and protection of their human rights in accordance with International Treaties, Conventions and Declarations;

• 6)

  To process cases for repatriation of the mortal remains of those considered entitled to it;

• 7)

  To manage migrants' access to basic health services in places of transit and destination;

• 8)

  To recommend that SRECI develop alliances at the national and international level with migratory authorities, non-governmental organizations and the private sector to protect the rights of migrants;

• 9)

  To represent in meetings, forums and events the General Directorate of Protection for Honduran Migrants on the subject of Human Rights;

• 10)

  To integrate the Inter-institutional Commission against Sexual Exploitation, Commercial Exploitation and Human Trafficking in Honduras (CICESCT); and,

• 11)

  Such other functions as established in international agreements and national laws.

The Office of Assistance for the Returned Migrant (OFAMIR) has the following functions:

• 1)

  To execute assistance policies for returned compatriots for their reception, social and labor reintegration;

• 2)

  To design and coordinate reintegration programs for returned migrants and likewise to follow up on social programs executed by other institutions for their benefit;

• 3)

  To supervise and monitor all social and labor reintegration projects and programs that are financed by FOSMIH in accordance with the approved projects and agreements;

• 4)

  To coordinate the Municipal Units of Care for the Returned (UMAR) at the national level;

• 5)

  To ensure the proper functioning of the Care Centers for the Returned Migrant;

• 6)

  To identify national and international institutions and organizations to create alliances with social and labor reintegration programs aimed at returned migrants;

• 7)

  To support civil associations of returned Hondurans and family networks established in Honduras in order to facilitate information, guidance and advice;

• 8)

  To propose together with the National Directorate of Childhood, Adolescence and Family (DINAF) and the Secretariat of State in the Office of Human Rights, the norms for special protection of children, girls and older adults from their entry into Honduras;

• 9)

  To ensure that the technical and financial reports of the institutions or organizations that handle FOSMIH funds are presented in legal and proper form;

• 10)

  To update the database of all returned migrants entering the country;

• 11)

  To participate in meetings, conferences, forums or any other that addresses the subject of assistance and reintegration of the migrant; and,

• 12)

  To channel to the corresponding authorities the cases of returned Hondurans who emigrated due to violence.

The Administrative Management is responsible for budgetary administration, human resources, materials and general services, including procurement functions, supplies, and the administration and custody of assets under its charge. Likewise, it shall be responsible for the execution, monitoring, and evaluation of the projects executed by SRECI.

The Administrative Management has the following under its charge:

• 1)

  Budget Sub-Management;

• 2)

  Human Resources Sub-Management;

• 3)

  Materials Resources and General Services Sub-Management;

• 4)

  Information Technology Unit; and,

• 5)

  Audit Unit for Budget Execution of Representation Expenses Abroad. SECTION I. OF THE BUDGET SUB-MANAGEMENT

The Budget Sub-Management has the following functions:

• 1)

  Prepare the annual budget draft of SRECI jointly with UPEG;

• 2)

  Register and keep control of accounting operations not recorded in bank reconciliations received from the General Accounting Office and General Treasury;

• 3)

  Register and keep control of accounting operations not recorded in the controls of Consumption and National Assets, according to the General Accounting Office of the Republic;

• 4)

  Prepare bank reconciliations of SRECI;

• 5)

  File manual entries and all accounting operations;

• 6)

  Perform the pre-approval process for payment of payrolls, hardship allowances and Foreign Service complexity, payment of internal service payrolls, deductions, travel allowances, tickets, suppliers and overtime hours;

• 7)

  Prepare and process payment of approved contracts, as well as the preparation and submission of income tax declarations derived therefrom;

• 8)

  Process payment of claims for unpaid salaries and others;

• 9)

  Effect payment of representation and operation expenses of embassies and consulates, single allocations and transfer expenses; as well as payment of salaries to employees of the consular roster and local employees of embassies and consular offices;

• 10)

  Calculate and effect payment of travel allowances abroad to employees and officials of SRECI;

• 11)

  Process payment of quotas to international organizations in accordance with requirements of the Directorate of Multilateral Policy and Multilateral Cooperation;

• 12)

  Process payment of public services of SRECI;

• 13)

  Review acquisitions of special accounts;

• 14)

  Prepare reports of financial statements as well as administer and prepare reports on the handling of special accounts;

• 15)

  Liquidate the SRECI budget at the end of the fiscal year;

• 16)

  Provide advisory and support services to the different departments of SRECI in matters of its competence; and,

• 17)

  Those others that the Law grants.

The Human Resources Sub-Management has the following functions:

• 1)

  Carry out human resource planning and apply the personnel administration system established by SRECI;

• 2)

  Study and propose policies and standards to address SRECI personnel requirements and perform tasks related to recruitment, selection, hiring, incentives, placement, reassignment, evaluation, personnel control, promotion based on capacity and merit criteria, promoting an optimal work environment;

• 3)

  Promote the well-being of human resources, promoting the principle of equal opportunity in personnel administration;

• 4)

  Execute the disciplinary regime established in the Civil Service Law, its Regulations, the Law of Diplomatic and Consular Service and its Regulations;

• 5)

  Prepare Agreements in matters of personnel administration;

• 6)

  Compile, update and maintain custody of personnel files;

• 7)

  Advise departments and administrative units regarding the application of legal provisions on personnel matters;

• 8)

  Answer and comply with judicial communications issued by judicial bodies, as well as other requirements by other official institutions;

• 9)

  Promote the development of a culture of quality and ethics;

• 10)

  Process payment of severance and legal indemnifications when applicable;

• 11)

  Prepare reports required in accordance with the Administrative Procedure Law;

• 12)

  Serve as official liaison in personnel administration matters with competent institutions;

• 13)

  Prepare professional services and consulting contracts, supervising and controlling the hiring of local employees in the Foreign Service;

• 14)

  Supervise the personnel performance evaluation process;

• 15)

  Prepare and execute jointly with the Diplomatic Academy an annual training plan based on SRECI needs;

• 16)

  Follow up on compliance with the obligation of employees and officials to submit sworn statements to the Superior Court of Accounts;

• 17)

  Prepare the itemized annex of salaries and wages and process the corresponding payrolls;

• 18)

  Calculate and notify income tax to Foreign Service personnel;

• 19)

  Process requests for vacation, compensatory time, record of disabilities, study permits, assignment of time-clock code and labor certificates of personnel and communicate internal transfers to Secretariat personnel;

• 20)

  Facilitate primary medical care to SRECI personnel in emergency cases;

• 21)

  Supervise diplomatic or consular representations for verification and attention of personnel matters;

• 22)

  Formulate strategies aimed at preventing labor conflicts;

• 23)

  Develop and implement jointly with the Materials Resources and General Services Sub-Management emergency, evacuation and risk prevention plans, both for persons and for assets;

• 24)

  Coordinate professional internships of students at middle and higher education levels conducted in administrative units and other departments, as well as assistance, cultural, sports and other social services offered by SRECI to its personnel; and,

• 25)

  Those others that the Law grants.

The Materials Resources and General Services Sub-Management has the following functions:

• 1)

  Comply with applicable legal provisions within the scope of its competence;

• 2)

  Coordinate the Units under its charge;

• 3)

  Carry out planning and administration of acquisitions and service contracts based on information provided by corresponding administrative units;

• 4)

  Administer and control SRECI real property, including that located in foreign service offices and in residences where they exist and that are property of the State of Honduras;

• 5)

  Issue reports requested in matters of its competence;

• 6)

  Develop and implement jointly with the Human Resources Sub-Management emergency, evacuation and risk prevention plans for persons and assets, both in the country and abroad;

• 7)

  Coordinate the supply function to determine based on statistics the consumption patterns of activities and the use of materials in order to transfer information to UPEG;

• 8)

  Ensure that requirements for certification and continuous training of security, maintenance, transport and procurement personnel are met;

• 9)

  Ensure permanent maintenance of SRECI vehicles for proper functioning; and,

• 10)

  Those others that the Law grants.

The Materials Resources and General Services Sub-Management is composed of the following units:

• 1)

  Local Assets Administration Unit (ULAB);

• 2)

  Procurement, Acquisitions and Projects Unit;

• 3)

  Internal Supply Unit;

• 4)

  Transport Unit;

• 5)

  Maintenance and Cleaning Unit; and,

• 6)

  Security and Surveillance Unit.

The Local Assets Administration Unit (ULAB) has the following functions:

• 1)

  Register, record, charge, discharge, auction, and update inventories of SRECI movable and immovable property and, where applicable, their depreciation;

• 2)

  Effect registration of SRECI assets in the Integrated Financial Administration System (SIAFI);

• 3)

  Address allocation requirements and internal movements of assets assigned to internal and foreign service personnel;

• 4)

  Perform appropriate procedures before the General Office of State Assets in processes of registration and recording of real property and vehicles and the discharge of movable assets;

• 5)

  Provide advice to public officials and employees on asset administration matters, when appropriate;

• 6)

  Supervise local departments and diplomatic or consular representations for verification and attention of matters within its competence;

• 7)

  Coordinate and monitor asset insurance coverage; and,

• 8)

  Those others that the Law grants.

The Procurement, Acquisitions and Projects Unit has the following functions:

• 1)

  Conduct procurement and evaluation processes based on what is established in the Law and follow up until their finalization;

• 2)

  Follow up on the Annual Procurement and Contracting Plan (PACC);

• 3)

  Register in the Platform of the Regulatory Office for State Contracting and Acquisition (ONCAE) the PACC as well as procurement requests from each Unit and procurement, acquisition and contracting processes;

• 4)

  Propose the integration of an ad hoc committee for the acquisition of computer equipment and office furniture or equipment in order to comply with required technical specifications;

• 5)

  Coordinate the leasing process of assets;

• 6)

  Request budget expansion for respective expenditure items;

• 7)

  Prepare the sales tax declaration for purchases made by SRECI and follow up for the discharge process;

• 8)

  Perform procedures related to hiring consulting services;

• 9)

  Keep records of documentation originating from acquisition and contracting processes conducted within the framework of programmed execution;

• 10)

  Prepare technical specifications, terms of reference and other conditions required for contracting and acquisition processes requested from internal service and Foreign Service;

• 11)

  Prepare documentation required to convene procurement processes;

• 12)

  Propose and integrate committees for receipt and evaluation of proposals, in order to conduct assigned contracting processes;

• 13)

  Advise departments and diplomatic missions and consular offices of SRECI in the preparation, management and follow-up of procurement, contracting and acquisition processes for goods, services and consulting;

• 14)

  Coordinate the process of claims for product warranties; and,

• 15)

  Those others that the Law grants.

The Internal Supply Unit has the following functions:

• 1)

  Plan quarterly procurement of movable property and consumption goods (materials and supplies) of SRECI based on consumption statistics of prior years and UPEG planning;

• 2)

  Integrate the Minor Purchases Committee for the opening of quotations and awards of materials and supplies;

• 3)

  Receive, inspect and safeguard movable property and consumption goods (materials and supplies) from suppliers with their respective documentation;

• 4)

  Make claims regarding inconsistencies observed in the purchase order at the time of product receipt in coordination with the Procurement Unit;

• 5)

  Coordinate the return of defective products or those that do not meet the specifications of the purchase order;

• 6)

  Perform the delivery process of consumption goods (materials and supplies) by means of properly authorized requisitions;

• 7)

  Maintain a record of authorized signatures for requisitioning consumption goods (materials and supplies);

• 8)

  Record entries, exits and inventory of consumption goods (materials and supplies) in the supply information system;

• 9)

  Remit the receipt certificate of movable property and consumption goods to the Procurement Unit;

• 10)

  Inform ULAB of receipt of movable property for inventory and asset assignment; and,

• 11)

  Those others established by the Law.

The Transport Unit has the following functions:

• 1)

  Provide transport service to internal and foreign service employees and officials within and outside the country, in fulfillment of official missions;

• 2)

  Ensure appropriate use and maintenance of SRECI vehicles;

• 3)

  Make necessary reports for maintenance and repair of the SRECI vehicle fleet;

• 4)

  Prepare fuel orders for vehicles with their respective mileage;

• 5)

  Keep records of logbooks of activities conducted by drivers and vehicles;

• 6)

  Monitor vehicle insurance coverage and registration of the same; and,

• 7)

  Conduct the insurance claim process.

The Maintenance and Cleaning Unit has the following functions: 1) Attend to, execute and supervise maintenance and repair of physical installations as well as elevators, electrical and electronic equipment and surroundings of SRECI; 2) Address requests for installation and uninstallation of furniture and equipment; 3) Coordinate cleaning of physical installations, office furniture and maintenance of green areas; 4) Determine needs and coordinate necessary sanitation processes for proper functioning of SRECI; 5) Maintain a logbook of maintenance of SRECI physical installations and equipment; and, 6) Handle waste generated within SRECI. ARTICLE 93: The Security and Surveillance Unit has the following functions:

• 1)

  Coordinate security and surveillance of SRECI facilities;

• 2)

  Ensure the safety of all officials and persons visiting SRECI;

• 3)

  Maintain a logbook of visits;

• 4)

  Control the flow of public employees, visitors and users to SRECI departments;

• 5)

  Coordinate parking spaces for vehicles of personnel working in SRECI, official visits and users;

• 6)

  Supervise the handling, conservation, maintenance, custody and proper use of equipment assigned for security purposes; and,

• 7)

  Monitor the registration, carrying and use of weapons process.

The Information Technology Unit has the following functions:

• 1)

  Design, develop, implement and administer information systems;

• 2)

  Propose and implement information security standards that govern the technological development of the institution, to maintain its infrastructure;

• 3)

  Propose and apply standards and methodologies for analysis, design, construction, testing, implementation and maintenance of information systems, as well as the definition of rules, procedures and communication mechanisms with subsystems;

• 4)

  Design, implement and administer data network, communications and security infrastructure in accordance with international standards in information subsystems that protect privacy and confidentiality of records;

• 5)

  Administer SRECI databases in accordance with established regulations;

• 6)

  Prepare the diagnosis and proposals for expansion of network infrastructure;

• 7)

  Coordinate and supervise the implementation of database administration and operating systems policies and procedures, in accordance with the architecture and functioning of systems;

• 8)

  Provide technical support services to SRECI officials and employees in the management of information systems, equipment installation and repair and software installation;

• 9)

  Provide preventive and corrective maintenance to equipment;

• 10)

  Conduct periodic reports evaluating SRECI information technology equipment needs;

• 11)

  Integrate an ad hoc Committee jointly with the Procurement and Acquisitions Unit for compliance with required technical specifications related to acquisition of computer equipment; and,

• 12)

  Integrate the commission responsible for the consular registration matter while the agreement that originated it remains in effect.

The Audit Unit for Budget Execution of Representation Expenses Abroad has the following functions:

• 1)

  Ensure compliance with the Regulations on Functioning and Representation Expenses of the Foreign Service, as well as instructions issued thereon;

• 2)

  Review liquidation reports and generate a review report, sending observations found in the execution of representation expenses abroad;

• 3)

  Respond to different requests related to the budgetary execution of representation expenses of the foreign service;

• 4)

  Provide support and advisory services to foreign service officials and authorities in different administrative proceedings;

• 5)

  Create and update the file of procedures conducted in digital and physical form;

• 6)

  Demand compliance with bonds required for the management and administration of representation expense funds of the foreign service from Heads of Permanent Diplomatic Missions and Consular Offices, and effect calculation of value in accordance with Law;

• 7)

  Prepare action plans at the request of the Internal Audit Unit;

• 8)

  Train the Head of Mission, Consul General or designated official for use of the electronic expense system; and,

• 9)

  Prepare the monthly report of amounts collected from the issuance of consular registration, as long as the agreement that originated it remains in effect.

The Embassies, Permanent Missions and Consular Offices, their officials and public servants constitute the Foreign Service of Honduras and depend directly on the Secretary of State.

The Foreign Service shall have the following functions:

• 1)

  Represent the State of Honduras;

• 2)

  Protect and promote national interests before receiving States and in international organizations of which Honduras is a member State;

• 3)

  Protect the rights and dignity of Hondurans abroad, in accordance with national legislation and the principles and norms of International Law;

• 4)

  Maintain, promote and foster relations of friendship and cooperation with the receiving State, in the political, security, economic, commercial, investment, tourism, scientific and cultural areas;

• 5)

  Intervene, negotiate, subscribe to and denounce treaties and conventions, in accordance with instructions from the Secretariat. When these deal with matters that are within the competence of other State Secretariats and institutions, the Secretariat shall be the official conductor for their achievement;

• 6)

  Disseminate information for better knowledge of national identity and promotion of the country's image, in support of other State Secretariats and Institutions;

• 7)

  Inform SRECI of political, economic and other events that may be considered of interest to Honduras;

• 8)

  Participate in accordance with our country's international agenda, in regional, continental and worldwide initiatives aimed at the maintenance of democracy, peace, human rights, international security and cooperation for development;

• 9)

  Support Honduras' special missions in the fulfillment of their official functions abroad;

• 10)

  Contribute to the economic and cultural integration of Honduras abroad;

• 11)

  Assume, upon authorization of SRECI and in accordance with International Law norms, the temporary protection of the rights and interests of a third State and its nationals;

• 12)

  Perform functions according to its competence established in the Vienna Convention on Diplomatic Relations, the Vienna Convention on Special Missions, the Vienna Convention on Consular Relations, the Law of Diplomatic and Consular Service of Honduras and its regulations; and,

• 13)

  Comply with other instructions from SRECI, in accordance with the Law.

Complementary regulatory mechanisms shall be created or reformed as the case may be, such as the Diplomatic and Consular Career Ladder Commission, the Internal Personnel Administration Regulation, Regulation of the Diplomatic and Consular Service Law, Representation Expenses Regulation of the Service, Regulation of Diplomatic and Official Passports, Regulation of Emeritus Ambassadors, Regulation of Communication and Correspondence, and Archive Regulation, among others.

The Organizational Chart and PCM 070-2017 form part of this Regulation as annexes.

For the modification of the organic structure, PCM 070-2017 and this Regulation shall be reformed. SECOND: This Regulation shall be published in the Official Gazette and shall enter into force as of its publication. Given in the city of Tegucigalpa, Municipality of the Central District, on the sixteenth day of the month of August of the year two thousand eighteen. LET IT BE COMMUNICATED AND PUBLISHED MARÍA DOLORES AGÜERO LARA Secretary of State MARTA CAROLINA PINEDA Coordinator of the General Secretariat