Bolivia’s president-elect says will resume US ties after nearly 2 decades

Bolivia’s new pro-business president-elect vowed on Monday to renew diplomatic ties with Washington as the South American country veered right after nearly two decades under socialist rule blamed by many for its myriad economic woes.

Rodrigo Paz, a 58-year-old economist-turned senator, emerged victorious in a run-off election on Sunday, beating a fellow right-wing rival after a first voting round in August saw the socialist MAS party founded by ex-leader Evo Morales ousted from the race.

In his victory speech Sunday night, Paz proclaimed Bolivia was “reclaiming its place on the international stage”.

And on Monday, he told reporters Bolivia’s relationship with the United States “will be resumed” nearly 20 years after Morales kicked out Washington’s ambassador.

“We have been talking with the US government in particular. I believe this is very important,” he said.

Paz was set to take office on November 8 facing an uphill task.