Secretary Haaland Leads U.S. Delegation for Inauguration of Paraguay President Peña

Date: Wednesday, August 16, 2023
Contact: Interior_Press@ios.doi.gov

ASUNCIÓN, PARAGUAY — Secretary of the Interior Deb Haaland this week led the United States presidential delegation to the Inauguration of His Excellency Santiago Peña. Secretary Haaland was joined by U.S. Ambassador to Paraguay Marc Ostfield, U.S. Ambassador to the Organization of American States Francisco O. Mora, Assistant Secretary of State for International Narcotics and Law Enforcement Affairs Todd D. Robinson, and U.S. Representative Norma Torres.

The delegation met with key counterparts and partners, participated in the inaugural ceremony and events, and met with President Peña to reinforce the United States’ commitment and strong relationship with Paraguay. 

“Paraguay is a beautiful country - I was honored to represent President Biden, our administration, and the American people at President Peña’s inauguration,” said Secretary Haaland. “As we look to the future, the United States and Paraguay will continue to work together for the needs of our communities, promote equity and transparency, and work to uplift Indigenous communities.”

During the trip, Secretary Haaland also met with women Indigenous leaders in Paraguay to hear from them about the challenges and opportunities they face. The Secretary shared information about efforts in the United States to strength nation-to-nation relationships with Tribes, including through co-stewardship agreements and the elevation of Indigenous Knowledge. She emphasized the Biden-Harris administration’s commitment to the advancement of Indigenous communities across the globe, particularly in the face of the climate crisis.

President Biden is committed to tackling the climate crisis at home and abroad. As part of this all of government effort to build a sustainable future, the new embassy in Paraguay was constructed with sustainability features that lessen the impact on the environment. Secretary Haaland was briefed on these new features during a tour and visit to the embassy.

“Secretary Haaland's visit sends a strong message about the importance of the partnership between the U.S. and Paraguay and the value we place on inclusive democracy, including the participation of women and Indigenous leaders at the highest levels of government. We know that diversity is our strength, and democracy only works when it includes everyone,” said Ambassador Ostfield.

The visit was facilitated with the support of the Department’s Office of International Affairs, which facilitates, supports and coordinates international engagement to advance the agency’s mission and support complementary U.S. foreign policy objectives abroad.

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