Overview
- The 58-year-old conservative took the oath in La Paz after winning last month’s runoff against former President Jorge “Tuto” Quiroga.
- He pledged to restore relations with the United States and to cooperate on security with international bodies, including the U.S. Drug Enforcement Administration.
- An initial agreement with the Andean Development Corporation envisions $3.1 billion in financing to support economic recovery over the coming years.
- Bolivia faces its worst economic downturn in four decades, with inflation above 20 percent, scarce dollars and persistent fuel shortages.
- Governability is uncertain as his Christian Democratic Party holds about 39 percent of the 166-seat legislature, requiring alliances to pass reforms.