Moreno Statement on White House Meeting With Petro

WASHINGTON - Senator Bernie Moreno (R-Ohio) released the following statement after participating in President Trump's meeting with Colombian President Gustavo Petro.

"I was honored to join President Trump, Vice President JD Vance, and Secretary of State Marco Rubio in the Oval Office today.

"President Trump pledged to be a peacemaker and a unifier when he took office just over one year ago. He has delivered, and continues to deliver, on that promise. He welcomed President Petro to the White House and made it clear that the United States is committed to peace and stability in the Western Hemisphere. He also made it clear that he will engage in meaningful and respectful dialogue with anyone who seeks to work in partnership with the US to advance our mutual interests. Wiping out the scourge of drug trafficking is at the top of that agenda, as it should be for all free nations of the world.

"Much work needs to be done but today was a step in a positive direction. With his remarkable and successful precision operation in Venezuela, President Trump has opened an era of unlimited opportunities for not only the US, but also for Latin America. Colombia has been, and can be again, our great ally and strategic partner. We look forward to engaging with the Petro administration over their last few months in office. It's essential that Colombia ensure its people has a transparent, free and fair election, not only next month, but in May and June. The US will be watching carefully, and I am hopeful that the next President of Colombia will build upon what we have done and take the relationship to new heights."