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Richard Verma embarks on overseas trip before Trump 2.0

Having already arrived in Tirana, Albania, Verma will engage in discussions about the country’s democratic progress, defense capabilities, and efforts to strengthen economic ties with the United States.

U.S. Deputy Secretary of State for Management and Resources, Richard R. Verma / Wikipedia

U.S. Deputy Secretary of State for Management and Resources, Richard R. Verma, has embarked on an overseas trip before President-elect Donald Trump's inauguration on Jan.20. Verma's tour, which will span from Jan.7 to 11, includes visits to Albania, Kosovo, and Serbia.

Having already arrived in Tirana, Albania, Verma will engage in discussions about the country’s democratic progress, defense capabilities, and efforts to strengthen economic ties with the United States. He is also expected to thank the Albanian government for its ongoing support of Afghan allies.





In Kosovo, Verma’s agenda will focus on advancing the normalization of Kosovo’s relations with Serbia through the EU-facilitated Dialogue, as well as strengthening governance, rule of law, and fostering economic growth. Energy security for Kosovo's citizens is another key issue on the table. Verma will also express gratitude to the government of Kosovo for its steadfast support of Ukraine and its aid to Afghan refugees.

Verma’s visit to Serbia will emphasize the growing U.S.-Serbia strategic partnership, particularly in the areas of energy and other economic issues. The Deputy Secretary will offer support for Serbia’s integration into European institutions, the normalization of its relations with Kosovo, and the enhancement of rule of law. He will also discuss closer U.S.-Serbia military and security cooperation.

Throughout his trip, Verma will reaffirm the United States' commitment to supporting the countries of the Western Balkans as they work towards Euro-Atlantic integration and enhanced regional cooperation.

Born in 1968 to Indian immigrant parents, Richard Verma is the highest-ranking Indian American in the history of the U.S. State Department. He served as the U.S. Ambassador to India from January 2015 to January 2017. 

Verma's academic credentials include a B.S. from Lehigh University, a J.D. from American University, an LLM from Georgetown University Law Center, and a Ph.D. from Georgetown University. He is a distinguished figure in U.S. diplomacy, with deep ties to both the United States and India.


 

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