Deputy Secretary Christopher Landau led the U.S. Presidential Delegation to the inauguration of Bolivian President Rodrigo Paz on November 8, reaffirming the United States’ intention to strengthen ties with Bolivia. The event marked a potential new phase in U.S.-Bolivia relations, which have spanned 176 years.
During the visit, Deputy Secretary Landau stated his belief that "a renewed U.S.-Bolivia relationship can be a cornerstone of joint economic prosperity, people-to-people ties, and security cooperation that brings benefits to the peoples of the United States and Bolivia." Several initiatives were announced by both governments at the ceremony.
In economic matters, Ben Black, CEO of the U.S. International Development Finance Corporation (DFC), and John Jovanovic, President and Chairman of the U.S. Export-Import Bank (EXIM), revealed that their agencies are now seeking trade and investment opportunities in Bolivia. Teams from DFC, EXIM, the U.S. Trade and Development Agency, and the State Department will travel to Bolivia to pursue commercial projects aimed at promoting private sector growth and job creation in both countries. The two nations also agreed to re-launch their bilateral Trade and Investment Council and establish a Joint Deal Team for identifying investment opportunities.
Regarding people-to-people connections, President Paz said he would soon remove visa requirements for American tourists and business travelers as a way to encourage visits and investments from the United States. Both leaders decided to work toward a U.S. Open Skies Agreement intended to boost air travel between their countries. President Paz further announced plans to approve Starlink’s license application so it can provide internet service throughout Bolivia.
President Paz expressed gratitude for previous Peace Corps volunteers in Bolivia and indicated he intends to invite them back. In addition, Deputy Secretary Landau announced that an American Space will reopen in La Paz in early 2026 after being closed for ten years; this facility is expected to promote American culture and English language learning among Bolivians.
On public safety issues, Deputy Secretary Landau shared news of a $700,000 donation in HIV antiretroviral medication and testing kits through PEPFAR (the President’s Emergency Plan for AIDS Relief). He also noted that the State Department would collaborate with Congress on support measures aimed at improving citizen security in Bolivia. Both delegations showed interest in negotiating an agreement on safe civilian nuclear collaboration.
Further details about these announcements are available at https://www.state.gov/releases/2025/11/u-s-presidential-delegation-to-the-inauguration-of-bolivian-president-rodrigo-paz/.