The stylish new central library in El Salvador's capital San Salvador is buzzing with activity.

The futuristic-looking glass building, which is located opposite the city's cathedral and next to the presidential palace, has turned into a family meeting hub.

Children read or play, parents watch them, and the selection of books is impressive.

The entire project was financed by China and is part of a modernization project for the historical center in San Salvador.

However, El Salvador President Nayib Bukele wants to transform much more than just the capital's city center — he has a vision for the entire country.

"Our next step is to ensure that the world perceives El Salvador more for its economic miracle than for its security miracle," he stated, adding, "this will take a few more years, but we are on the right track."

According to official data, El Salvador has transformed itself from one of the most dangerous countries in Latin America to the safest.

The number of murders fell from almost 4,000 in 2017 to less than 80 in the first few months of 2024.

The government arrested more than 80,000 suspected members of the dreaded "Mara" gangs as part of an ongoing state of emergency that began in........

© Deutsche Welle