Speeches and Statements

Statement of James M. Derham, Ambassador-Designate to Guatemala, Before the Senate Committee on Foreign Relations

Washington, May 25, 2005

Mr. Chairman, members of the Committee,

I am honored to appear before you today as President Bush’s nominee to be the Ambassador of the United States to Guatemala.  I am grateful to the President and the Secretary of State for their confidence and trust in sending my name to the Senate for your consideration.  My wife, Joleen, and our family share my enthusiasm at the prospect of serving in Guatemala.

The United States has long had close and friendly ties to Guatemala and they continue today.  Our relationship with the Government of President Oscar Berger has been particularly constructive.  He has carried out a historic reduction of the military, has implemented needed fiscal reforms, and is working to generate economic growth that will reduce poverty and benefit all sectors of Guatemalan society. 

More than 15,000 Americans reside in Guatemala and over 230,000 Americans visit each year.  If confirmed, their safety will be my top priority.  Other important goals I would intend to pursue in cooperation with the Government of Guatemala include strengthening the rule of law to better protect human rights and to combat international crime such as drug trafficking, illegal alien smuggling, trafficking in persons and terrorism; providing a secure environment for American business interests; fostering economic development; and enhancing Guatemala’s capacity to cope with natural disasters.

Guatemala has signed and ratified the U.S.-Central American-Dominican Republic Free Trade Agreement, committing to increased economic integration with Central America and with the United States.  These closer economic ties will benefit Guatemala and its trading partners.  A stronger economy will lead to increased job creation and should reduce immigration pressures.

Embassy Guatemala has 106 American employees and 270 Guatemalan employees.  Thirteen agencies are represented at post, among them the Drug Enforcement Agency, the Departments of Commerce and Agriculture, the Peace Corps, and the Agency for International Development.

I believe my 30 years in the Foreign Service, including my background in trade policy, as Deputy Chief of Mission in Mexico, and Principal Deputy Assistant Secretary in the Bureau of Western Hemisphere Affairs, have prepared me well for this important assignment.  I would certainly draw on this experience to ensure that our Embassy resources are wisely used, and that security remains a top priority.

Mr. Chairman, members of the Committee, if confirmed, I look forward to working with you and with your colleagues in Congress as we pursue our interests in Guatemala.  I will be happy to answer any questions you may have.  Thank you.