Oral history interview with Arturo A. Valenzuela, 2021
Abstract
Arturo Valenzuela reflects on his service in the Obama administration as assistant secretary of state for western hemisphere affairs from 2009 to 2011. He outlines the structure and activities of the Bureau of Western Hemisphere Affairs, speaks widely about the Obama administration's foreign policy for the Western Hemisphere, and focuses on efforts to further diplomacy in the Americas and encourage adherence to international rules and standards. Valenzuela provides details about notable events, processes, and initiatives with which he was closely involved, including Plan Colombia; diplomatic negotiations with Ecuadorian President Jamil Mahuad, Honduran President Manuel Zelaya, and Venezuelan President Hugo Chávez; and the diplomatic consequences of WikiLeaks releases of U.S. diplomatic cables. Valenzuela also discusses his service in the Clinton administration; the Obama administration's use of the Foreign Corrupt Practices Act; and regional attitudes toward the United States
Presidents--United States; Leaks (Disclosure of information)--Political aspects--United States; United States Foreign relations Western Hemisphere; Valenzuela, Arturo, 1944-; Obama, Barack; Plan Colombia (U.S.); WikiLeaks (Organization); Columbia University Alumni and alumnae; United States. Department of State; United States; Foreign Corrupt Practices Act of 1977
Format
oral histories
Genre
Interviews
Date
2021
Physical Description
77 pages
Note (Biographical)
Arturo Valenzuela is a former government official and professor specializing in Latin America. Valenzuela joined the Obama administration as the assistant secretary of state for Western Hemisphere affairs, a position he held from 2009 to 2011. During President Clinton's presidency, he served as the deputy assistant secretary of state for inter-American affairs and later as special assistant to the president and senior director for inter-American affairs at the United States National Security Council. Valenzuela was previously an emeritus professor of government and international service at Georgetown University
Note
Interviewed by Evan D. McCormick on February 4 and 10, 2021. This interview is part of the Columbia University: Obama Presidency Oral History
Note (Provenance)
Arturo A. Valenzuela, Gift, transferred from Columbia Center for Oral History Research 2023