U.S. Cancels Visa for Ex-Costa Rican President Oscar Arias Amid Criticism
Former Costa Rican President Oscar Arias has had his U.S. visa revoked without explanation. Despite this, he insists it will not silence his criticism of U.S. policies, especially regarding tariffs and military spending. Arias argues that free trade agreements have historically benefited growth, and he questions the U.S.’s decision-making priorities.
Former Costa Rican President Oscar Arias, aged 84 and a Nobel Peace Prize laureate, reported that the U.S. government has canceled his visa without providing an explanation. According to an email from the U.S. State Department, this decision was made on the basis of new information suggesting that he may no longer be eligible for the visa. Arias was instructed to reapply if he wanted to visit the U.S.
Arias has speculated that his critical stance towards U.S. policies may have influenced the decision. He voiced his objections to tariffs imposed by the U.S., which include a 10% duty on Costa Rican imports. This contrasts sharply with the U.S.’s historical advocacy for free trade and numerous free-trade agreements, which Arias considers effective for economic growth.
During his remarks, Arias suggested that the U.S. government may disapprove of his views regarding various global issues, including the war in Ukraine, U.S.-China trade tensions, and conflicts in Gaza. He highlighted the importance of reallocating military spending towards social priorities such as education, healthcare, and environmental protection.
Arias also expressed confusion over the U.S. decision to cut the U.S. Agency for International Development, which he believes is crucial for addressing global human needs. He stated, “What it all shows is that the priorities are all mistaken, and the priorities are all mistaken because the ethical values are mistaken.”
Despite the visa revocation, Arias maintains that he is not overly concerned, noting he has received 93 honorary degrees from U.S. institutions. “The United States already gave me 93 honorary degrees,” he remarked, reiterating his admiration for the country and its people. Though he prefers to travel there for prestigious honors, he remains steadfast in his criticism of their policies.
The U.S. State Department’s unexplained cancellation of Oscar Arias’s visa reflects potential political tensions stemming from his criticisms of American foreign policy and economic decisions. Arias remains vocal about the importance of prioritizing education and healthcare over military spending, and he emphasizes the contradictions in U.S. trade policies. This situation highlights broader discussions about ethical values and global priorities in international relations.
Original Source: www.indiatoday.in
