Oscar Arias, former Costa Rican president and Nobel laureate, announced the U.S. has revoked his visa without explanation. Arias criticized this decision, linking it to his public criticisms of U.S. policies. He remains undeterred in his advocacy for free trade and disarmament, expressing confusion over U.S. foreign priorities while affirming his admiration for the nation.
Oscar Arias, the former President of Costa Rica and recipient of the Nobel Peace Prize, has revealed that the United States government has revoked his visa without providing a clear explanation. The notification was sent via email from the U.S. State Department, indicating that new information had emerged suggesting Arias’s potential ineligibility for the visa. The correspondence also stated that should Arias wish to travel to the United States again, he must re-apply for the visa.
During a statement made shortly after the announcement, Arias criticized the U.S. administration’s decision, especially in light of President Donald Trump’s recent tariffs on several trading partners, which included a 10% duty on imports from Costa Rica. He expressed his astonishment at the move, given the U.S.’s historical advocacy for free trade and its numerous free-trade agreements. According to Arias, countries with open economies and free trade are typically among those that experience the most significant growth.
Unsure about the motives behind the visa revocation, Arias speculated that his public stances on various global issues, such as the conflict in Ukraine, U.S.-China trade tensions, and the situation in Gaza, may have influenced the decision. He emphasized the importance of prioritizing disarmament and reallocating resources toward education, healthcare, and environmental conservation to benefit humanity.
Arias also expressed confusion regarding the U.S. government’s decision to dismantle the Agency for International Development, which he believes plays a crucial role in meeting fundamental human needs worldwide. He criticized this move as indicative of misplaced priorities and ethical concerns.
Despite the visa revocation, Arias remains unfazed, noting that he has received 93 honorary degrees from U.S. institutions. He remarked that the principal reason for his visits to the U.S. was to accept these honors, and while he wishes the situation were different, he retains admiration for the United States and its people.
In conclusion, Oscar Arias, a respected former leader and Nobel laureate, finds himself at odds with the U.S. government following the revocation of his visa. He maintains his critical stance regarding various global issues and expresses confusion over recent U.S. actions that seem counter to established principles of free trade and humanitarian efforts. Despite this setback, Arias’s commitment to advocacy remains resolute, reflecting his enduring respect for the United States.
Original Source: www.newsday.com
