In his first address to the Permanent Council of the Organization of American States (OAS), U.S. Permanent Representative Ambassador Leandro Rizzuto emphasized the United States’ ongoing commitment to improving security, human dignity, and prosperity throughout the Western Hemisphere.
Ambassador Rizzuto acknowledged the Council’s focus on eliminating violence against women, describing it as a unifying issue for countries in the region. “As a husband and a father of three beautiful daughters, I want to recognize today’s agenda item on eliminating violence against women,” he said. “This is a shared priority across our hemisphere, and it deserves our common commitment.”
He connected this topic to broader goals for the OAS, calling for strengthened security measures, support for democratic institutions, efforts to confront instability, and initiatives that promote economic opportunity. The Ambassador stressed that protecting women, children, and those affected by insecurity should remain central to regional cooperation. He noted this was especially important as the OAS addresses current challenges such as instability in Haiti, border security concerns, criminal networks, and economic resilience.
Rizzuto also spoke about expanding commercial partnerships and reinforcing lawful order. He said that increasing public–private collaboration is essential for delivering positive outcomes for citizens across the Americas.
“Our goal is simple: to make the Americas safer, stronger, and more prosperous,” Ambassador Rizzuto concluded.