US Revokes Visa of Nobel Laureate Oscar Arias Amidst Political Tensions

Oscar Arias, a key figure in Central American peace efforts, reflects on the implications of his visa revocation following criticism of Donald Trump's policies.

Former Costa Rican president and Nobel Peace Prize winner Oscar Arias has announced that his US visa has been revoked. This decision comes shortly after the 84-year-old publicly criticized former President Donald Trump's leadership, likening it to that of a "Roman emperor." Arias, famed for his critical role in negotiating peace in Central America, claimed he was notified of the revocation via a brief email from US authorities weeks ago, without any further explanation.

While Arias expressed uncertainty about the exact reasons behind the visa cancellation, he hinted at a potential link to his past diplomatic relations with China during his presidency from 2006 to 2010. Rising tensions between the US and China have led to scrutiny over Central American countries that strengthen ties with Beijing, contrasting with the Trump administration's assertive strategy to reduce Chinese influence in the region.

During a press conference in San José, Arias remarked that he believed the US State Department may have been behind the decision, rather than Trump himself. He noted, “I established diplomatic relations with China… that, of course, is known throughout the world.”

Arias's opposition to current Costa Rican President Rodrigo Chaves’s pro-US stance further complicates the situation, as recent policies have favored excluding Chinese firms from critical telecommunications contracts. In light of these events, Arias's remarks on social media in February drew parallels between the treatment of small countries and historical notions of colonialism, stating, "it has never been easy for a small country to disagree with the US government."

Arias is not unprecedented in facing visa revocation; three other Costa Rican opposition members have also lost their US visas amidst similar political disagreements. The unfolding scenario raises questions about the intricate dynamics of US foreign policy in Central America and reflects growing diplomatic tensions with China.