From the Caribbean to the World Stage: Rubio's Week of Strategic Wins - Faith & Freedom News

March 21 – March 27, 2025

In a week marked by vigorous diplomacy and strategic leadership, Secretary Rubio and the State Department have advanced U.S. interests on multiple fronts—from the Caribbean to international training initiatives. The week began with plans to honor the 2025 International Women of Courage awardees, where Secretary Rubio and First Lady Trump will soon recognize trailblazers for their dedication to empowering women and girls.

Honoring Courage and Leadership

On Tuesday, anticipation builds for the upcoming ceremony celebrating women of exceptional courage, strength, and leadership. This prestigious event underscores the administration’s commitment to championing the rights and opportunities of women and girls around the globe.

Strengthening Ties in the Caribbean

Secretary Rubio’s recent trip to the Caribbean highlights a proactive effort to fortify security across the hemisphere, counter transnational crime, and address challenges related to illegal immigration. His itinerary included key stops in Jamaica, Guyana, and Suriname:

Kingston, Jamaica: In a joint press availability with Prime Minister Andrew Holness, Rubio discussed aligning U.S. foreign aid with strategic priorities, reshaping global trade to favor American interests, and supporting initiatives to enhance local security. He also acknowledged the hard work of the U.S. Embassy staff in Jamaica.
Georgetown, Guyana: The dialogue with President Irfaan Ali centered on bolstering economic and energy partnerships, as well as regional security and defense cooperation—emphasizing the importance of Guyana’s prosperity in a broader regional context.
Paramaribo, Suriname: Conversations with President Santokhi and Foreign Minister Ramdin focused on economic progress, regional security, and the need for transparent elections ahead of May 2025, further cementing ties with U.S. allies.

Welcoming New Leadership

A significant highlight of the week was the introduction of Christopher Landau as the new Deputy Secretary of State. Welcomed on March 25, Landau has already begun shaping U.S.-Mexico relations, affirming a renewed era of security cooperation during his first official call with Mexican Foreign Secretary Juan Ramón de la Fuente. His fresh perspective and commitment are expected to further enhance American diplomatic efforts.

Secretary Rubio meets with Deputy Secretary Landau at the Department of State in Washington, D.C., March 25, 2025. (Official State Department photo by Freddie Everett)

Empowering the Next Generation of Diplomats

Secretary Rubio also visited the Foreign Service Institute (FSI), the U.S. government’s premier training facility for diplomats. Over 70 years, FSI has equipped countless diplomats with the necessary tools to serve American interests abroad. During his visit, Rubio engaged with diplomats in training, reaffirming the importance of continuous learning and adaptation in an ever-changing global landscape.

Additional Diplomatic Initiatives

In other news, the week saw further diplomatic maneuvers:

President Trump reimposed a maximum pressure campaign designed to end Iran’s nuclear threat, curtail its ballistic missile program, and stop it from supporting terrorist groups.
We’ve taken steps to de-escalate the Russia-Ukraine conflict and work to a long and enduring peace.
Deportation flights of Venezuelan illegal aliens to their homeland resumed.
In last week’s Big Takeaway, Spokesperson Tammy Bruce shared how Secretary Rubio’s diplomacy is making America safer.
We announced a reward of up to $5 million for information leading to the arrest and/or conviction of Guatemalan narcotics trafficker Haroldo Waldemar Lorenzana Terraza.
We commemorated the 50th anniversary of the Biological Weapons Convention, which has made America and the world safer by addressing the threat of biological weapons.
The U.S. and the Government of Guyana agreed to deepen security cooperation, including countering narcotics trafficking and transnational organized crime.

Looking Ahead

With a busy schedule on the horizon—including the International Women of Courage Award Ceremony, the NATO Foreign Ministers’ Meeting, and the commencement of World Expo 2025 in Osaka—the State Department remains steadfast in its commitment to securing a safe, prosperous, and cooperative global community.