Colombian President Ivan Duque has called on the United States to take a more pro-active role in Latin America, saying that the region should not be “left alone”.
In an interview with the Miami Herald, Duque urged the US to take larger leadership roles in areas such as advancing democracy, providing technical support for small businesses and promoting investment aimed at generating growth and jobs.
“We need the US to be more present, more willing and more decided in taking on leadership to help us further advance in these areas,” Duque said.
The Colombian president also said the US should increase its involvement in pressing for democratic institutions and civic activities, and work with Latin American partners to strengthen its economic ties.
Duque emphasized the need for the US to strongly support multilateral initiatives, and regional development projects such as UNASUR, the South American trade group.
The Colombian leader’s comments come as the Trump Administration has taken a more hands-off approach to Latin America in recent months after increasing its engagement in the region since 2017.
