Heine Discusses Biden’s Approach to Latin America
Ambassador Jorge Heine, Research Professor at the Frederick S. Pardee School of Global Studies at Boston University, spoke during a recent the Canadian International Council (CIC) event titled “The Biden Administration: Challenges and Opportunities for Canada in Latin America.”
The discussion explored how the new Biden administration will approach Latin America and what this might mean for Canadian policy towards the region.
In his remarks, Heine noted the stark difference between the Trump and Biden administrations explaining that former President Trump never visited Latin America except for the G20 meeting, while President Biden visited the region 16 times during his time as Vice President. He said Biden’s knowledge of the region, familiarity with its leaders, and commitment to multilateralism will mean brighter futures for US-Latin American relations ahead.
While he did list many issues that improved bilateral relations will help address, Heine also noted that Latin America likely won’t be a top priority for the Biden administration due to the numerous domestic issues it must initially focus on.
A recording of the event can be viewed online.
Ambassador Jorge Heine is a Research Professor at the Pardee School of Global Studies at Boston University. He has served as ambassador of Chile to China (2014-2017), to India (2003-2007) and to South Africa (1994-1999), and as a Cabinet Minister in the Chilean Government. Read more about Heine on his Pardee School faculty profile.