As we prepare for next week’s inauguration, this is a pivotal moment to reflect on the immense opportunity ahead for the United States and our neighbors in Latin America and the Caribbean.
A strong Latin America makes for a strong United States. Our safety and prosperity are deeply tied to the health of our neighbors. If our Hemisphere struggles, so does the U.S. Over the past several years, however, there has been a significant vacuum in U.S. policy toward the region. While we've neglected to consistently promote democracy, freedom of the press, and freedom of speech, our biggest global competitor, China, has capitalized on the void.
China has invested heavily in Latin America—constructing major infrastructure projects, acquiring natural resources, and expanding its influence through loans and trade partnerships. These investments have created a growing dependency that threatens the region’s sovereignty and shifts its alliances away from democratic values.
Now, under the leadership of President Trump and Secretary of State (to be) Marco Rubio—the highest-ranking Latino in U.S. history—we have an opportunity to turn the tide. Few leaders understand the complexities and challenges of Latin America as deeply as Senator Rubio. He knows that neglect and isolation will only strengthen China’s foothold and undermine the region’s stability.
The path forward won’t be simple, but it is promising. President Trump has surrounded himself with capable advisors who bring unique expertise to the table. Mauricio J. Claver-Carone who was the first American president of the Inter-American Development Bank, and is now special envoy to Latin America, will play a key role in fostering regional development. Kevin Marino Cabrera, as the new ambassador to Panama, will serve as the top of the spear in Central America, while Leandro Rizzuto Jr.’s appointment as US ambassador to the Organization of of American States (OAS) underscores the importance of engaging the business community in this critical work.
As a former executive with the Conair Corporation, Ambassador Rizzuto brings invaluable experience and a business-oriented approach that will strengthen ties across the Americas.
I am excited to attend next week’s inauguration and look forward to witnessing this new chapter unfold. While challenges remain, I am optimistic about the potential for a strong, vibrant Latin America that benefits us all.
Praying for progress, partnership, and prosperity across the hemisphere.
Nice shiny video (or not). The Chamber keeps pushing the fossil fuel agenda and suing non-stop against any regulations. Fact is that continuing to do so will only cause more problems with GDP as well as health and create more climate disasters and climate refugees moving forward. How about leaning into more sustainable policies that will benefit your businesses and the public? That would be truly worth applauding and benefit everyone in the long run.