Deputy Secretary of State Christopher Landau addressed the Organization of American States (OAS) General Assembly, expressing gratitude to Antigua and Barbuda for hosting the event. He highlighted the historical ties between the United States and the Caribbean, noting that Alexander Hamilton was born on Nevis.
Landau extended congratulations to Albert Ramdin, the new Secretary General of the OAS, hoping for a successful tenure that would contribute to making the Western Hemisphere safer and more prosperous. Emphasizing a shared focus on this region with Secretary of State Marco Rubio, Landau reaffirmed their commitment to addressing regional issues.
He acknowledged his personal connections to various countries in the hemisphere and expressed gratitude towards Colombia for providing refuge to his family during World War II.
The Deputy Secretary underscored the historical role of the United States in establishing Pan American cooperation since 1889. He questioned whether the OAS is currently achieving its goals as outlined in its charter, which includes promoting peace, justice, solidarity, collaboration, sovereignty, territorial integrity, and independence.
Landau referenced an ongoing review ordered by President Trump concerning U.S. membership in international organizations like the OAS. The review aims to determine if such memberships align with U.S. interests and if reforms are possible.
Highlighting concerns about Venezuela's political situation following disputed elections and Haiti's security crisis dominated by armed gangs, Landau questioned what actions have been taken by the OAS in response. He emphasized that without effective intervention from organizations like the OAS, their purpose comes into question.
While extending an offer of friendship to collaborate with member states constructively, he urged them to demonstrate tangible benefits from U.S. investment in this organization.
Landau also mentioned Rosa María Payá's nomination to the Inter-American Commission on Human Rights as part of efforts to address urgent human rights abuses effectively.
Concluding his remarks, Landau called for action over rhetoric from member states in supporting democratic norms and securing borders while engaging constructively with one another within this forum.