Arias, 84, stated that he was notified of the visa cancellation through a brief email, devoid of any reasons for the decision. He speculates that this action may relate to his diplomatic engagement with China during his presidency from 2006 to 2010, when he shifted Costa Rica's allegiance from Taiwan to China.
The former president articulated his perplexity at the revocation, asserting that he believes the decision likely stemmed from the US State Department rather than Trump himself. During a press conference in San José, Arias reflected on his administration's independence, noting, "Costa Rica never received orders from Washington as if we were a banana republic." His criticisms of the Trump administration intensified especially after it accused several Central American nations of favoring Chinese influence in the region.
He also highlighted the contrasting US support for the current Costa Rican President, Rodrigo Chaves, who has notably distanced his country from Chinese firms in the realm of 5G technology development. Notably, Arias is not alone in facing visa cancellations; three members of Costa Rica’s national assembly who defy President Chaves's stance against Chinese participation have also had their visas revoked.
Arias’ visa revocation raises questions regarding political discourse, international relations, and the potential repercussions for those who challenge the prevailing geopolitical narratives.
The former president articulated his perplexity at the revocation, asserting that he believes the decision likely stemmed from the US State Department rather than Trump himself. During a press conference in San José, Arias reflected on his administration's independence, noting, "Costa Rica never received orders from Washington as if we were a banana republic." His criticisms of the Trump administration intensified especially after it accused several Central American nations of favoring Chinese influence in the region.
He also highlighted the contrasting US support for the current Costa Rican President, Rodrigo Chaves, who has notably distanced his country from Chinese firms in the realm of 5G technology development. Notably, Arias is not alone in facing visa cancellations; three members of Costa Rica’s national assembly who defy President Chaves's stance against Chinese participation have also had their visas revoked.
Arias’ visa revocation raises questions regarding political discourse, international relations, and the potential repercussions for those who challenge the prevailing geopolitical narratives.
