Background on Rodrigo Paz and His Victory
Rodrigo Paz, a 58-year-old economist, emerged victorious in Bolivia’s recent presidential runoff on Sunday, securing 54.5% of the votes against former right-wing president Jorge Quiroga. Paz is set to assume the presidency on November 8, succeeding Evo Morales, who was in power for over a decade. During his tenure, Morales had strained relations with the United States, expelling the U.S. ambassador in 2008 and removing American anti-drug agencies (DEA) and international cooperation programs (USAID) from the country.
Support from the US and Latin American Nations
In response to Paz’s victory, the United States and eight Latin American countries—Argentina, Costa Rica, Ecuador, El Salvador, Panama, Paraguay, the Dominican Republic, and Trinidad and Tobago—have expressed their support for the new president. The joint statement, released by the U.S. Department of State, highlights their commitment to helping Paz stabilize Bolivia’s economy and open it up to international trade, strengthen democratic institutions, and promote international commerce and investment.
Key Points from the Joint Statement
- Economic Stabilization: The signatory countries aim to support Paz’s efforts in stabilizing Bolivia’s economy and integrating it into the global market.
- Democratic Institutions: They intend to bolster Bolivia’s democratic institutions and promote a stable political environment.
- International Trade: The countries will work together to encourage international trade and investment in Bolivia.
Symbolism of Paz’s Victory
The signatories view Paz’s victory as a clear indication of the Bolivian people’s desire for change and a fresh direction for their nation. It signifies a departure from the economic mismanagement of the past two decades, which was largely associated with Evo Morales’ government.
Paz’s Stance on US Relations
Following his victory, Paz has signaled his intention to restore ties with the United States. This includes re-establishing diplomatic relations and welcoming back U.S. anti-drug agencies (DEA) and international cooperation programs (USAID), which were removed during Morales’ presidency.
Key Questions and Answers
- Who is Rodrigo Paz? Rodrigo Paz is a 58-year-old economist who won Bolivia’s presidential runoff on Sunday with 54.5% of the votes.
- Which countries have pledged support to Paz? The United States and eight Latin American countries—Argentina, Costa Rica, Ecuador, El Salvador, Panama, Paraguay, the Dominican Republic, and Trinidad and Tobago—have expressed their support for Paz.
- What are the main objectives of this support? The primary goals include stabilizing Bolivia’s economy, strengthening democratic institutions, promoting international trade, and encouraging investment.
- How will Paz’s victory impact US-Bolivia relations? Paz has indicated his willingness to restore and strengthen ties with the United States, including re-establishing diplomatic relations and welcoming back U.S. agencies that were removed during Evo Morales’ presidency.
