U.S. Expresses 'Unwavering Support' for Bolivia's Democracy with 'Mutual Respect'

The United States has officially expressed its "unwavering support" for democracy in Bolivia and for the government of President Rodrigo Paz, who was legitimately elected. This statement comes after seven weeks of protests and road blockades demanding Paz's resignation.

Erik Martini, the Chargé d'Affaires of the U.S. Embassy in Bolivia, emphasized that political disagreements must be settled through dialogue and adherence to the law, within the constitutional framework, and never through violence. He asserted that the sovereign will of the people, as expressed at the ballot box, is non-negotiable.

Martini also announced that the U.S. intends to increase its cooperation with Bolivia. This enhanced partnership aims to bolster institutions, stimulate economic prosperity, and ensure the security of both nations. Key areas of focus will include a joint fight against drug trafficking and organized crime.

The U.S. alliance with Bolivia is founded on mutual respect and a shared conviction that development cannot exist without security, nor prosperity without democracy. This commitment follows a period of significant unrest in Bolivia, which included blockades that disrupted supplies and led to numerous deaths, primarily due to lack of timely medical attention. The Bolivian government had accused former President Evo Morales of financing the conflict, a claim he denied.