Hearings to examine the nomination of Darrell Owens, of Pennsylvania

The hearing of the Senate Foreign Relations Committee will now come to order. A reminder to those in attendance, if you disrupt this event, this hearing today, uh you'll be arrested and subject to a ban up to a year, according to DC law. I hope we can have a good hearing today and keep it orderly. Um, before we start this morning, I'm gonna um let Senator Budd uh introduce his uh witness today and then I'll start my remarks. But Senator Budd, I know you have a busy schedule today. I'll turn it over to you.

Well, good morning and uh thank you very much, Chairman Daines, Ranking Member Cain and um my member and colleagues on the committee. Uh, you know, it's my honor to introduce you today, the Honorable George Holding of North Carolina, President Trump's nominee to serve as United States Director of the European Bank for Reconstruction and Development. Over the past decade, I've had the privilege of knowing and working alongside my friend George in the US House of Representatives where we proudly served together for our state of North Carolina. Ever since I began my career in public service, uh George has, he's had my back. He was my earliest endorser from the North Carolina congressional delegation when I first ran for Congress in twenty sixteen and there were seventeen in that race. And as I was a small business owner from Davie County and I quickly became a trusted friend, respected uh colleague of of George. Um, when they had the great red- redraw of twenty sixteen, I even inherited his district number, thirteen. So for a few years I took a lot of his calls. As a former member of the W- House Ways and Means Committee, George was known across the North Carolina congressional delegation as the go-to guy for all things tax policy. He consistently provided sound policy advice anchored in the principles of economic freedom, financial accountability to the American taxpayer. Throughout his nearly twenty years in public service, George has embodied the best of conservative economics, holding himself to the highest standards of fiscal responsibility to ensure that the hard-earned tax dollars of the people of the Eastern District of North Carolina, and all Americans, were spent wisely and not wasted. Since nineteen ninety-one, following the collapse of the former Soviet Union, the EBRD has eased the path for former Communist countries across Central and Eastern Europe to embrace free markets, thereby promoting economic freedom in post-Soviet Europe. Given our nation's leadership as the bank's largest shareholder, I strongly believe that we need a director with a proven record of stewarding American tax dollars. And I cannot think of anyone better suited for this job than George Holding. George's steady leadership in both the public and private sectors coupled with his deep understanding of geopolitics has prepared him to lead in this role. As a firm believer in free markets, he is committed to ensuring that American investment is deployed strategically in a way that best serves the American taxpayer. I've no doubt that he'll continue to keep American interests top of mind, as he supports the bank's mission to promote private sector investment and free market economies while safeguarding American capital. Strategic and fiscally responsible American investment is particularly important today given countries who threaten American economic interests around the world. I'm proud to join President Trump and Secretary Besson in confidently endorsing George Holding as a well-equipped and esteemed nominee to serve as US Director of EBRD and throughout today's hearing I hope my colleagues on both sides of the aisle will come to agree with me. And if confirmed, I have no doubt that he will serve our country. Well, thank you.

Senator Budd, thank you for that uh very kind uh introduction. And I wanna thank our nominees today for joining us and for your willingness to serve our great country. It is because of people like you that we are able to further our national security and our national interest, and I extend my sincere thanks to you and your families, and I see many of the families here uh joining uh you right behind you. President Trump and Secretary Rubio are working tirelessly to further the American national interest. to make the world safer and more prosperous for Americans, and to reform and revitalize US diplomacy. Their efforts around the world have produced incredible results, bringing peace to war-torn regions like the South Caucasus. I got to see that firsthand, seeing Azerbaijan, Armenia brokering a peace deal, something that had basically a hot war for thirty-five years, but not today. They've been stemming the the tide of deadly fentanyl entering our country, putting our adversaries on the back foot, furthering US business interests, investment abroad, as well as foreign investment in the United States. They should be commended for their hard work. Under their leadership, America is back on the world stage. If confirmed, all four of you will become part of that effort to further the US national interest. While the countries and institutions at which you will represent the United States are both geographically and functionally diverse, and just looking at where you all are headed, once confirmed, it's demonstrated right here with this panel, you will all be a very important part of the State Department's team, and your efforts are critical to the President's initiatives. Again, I'd like to thank each of you personally, as well as your family, speaking as somebody who has lived abroad for a number of years, honest in the private sector, and for your willingness to serve. And I very much look forward to your testimonies. And with that, I'd like to recognize my friend, the distinguished ranking member for his comments, Senator Tim Kaine.

Great. Thank you to the chair and congratulations to all the witnesses. I'll be brief in my opening comments. These are all important positions for the United States, both the international organizations and the two companies whose nomi- countries whose nominees are before us today. Um, the Organization for Security and Cooperation in Europe is not as well known as organizations like NATO or the EU, but it's extremely important because it has a broader universe of European nations that participate. NATO's membership is smaller, um, the EU's membership is smaller, but the OSCE includes a broad membership, including nations with whom we have troubled relations, for example, Russia and others. And so having a a broad expansion of OSCE gives the US the ability to communicate through this organization in ways we can't through other organizations. Um, the European Bank for Reconstruction and Development was created by the United States in the aftermath of the fall of the Soviet Union to help uh economies that had been sort of state-run socialist economies trans uh transfer form into a rule of law-based uh free enterprise economy. It's still very, very important, and I know the chair and I believe that, you know, successful economic transition um often goes hand in hand with human rights and democracy promotion. The US is the largest shareholder in this institution and it's important that we be well well represented. Um Tanzania has been an important ally of the United States. There's been strong military to military cooperation with Tanzania. There was a recent election in twenty twenty five that was marred by violence. That election led to the election of a candidate with I think a ninety seven percent vote, which that tells us we ought to be nervous about the state of democracy in Tanzania but it has been an ally in the past. We want the relationship to be strong. And then finally, Guatemala is a neighbor. Sizeable Guatemalan American population, including in Virginia, uh where I live. Um the election of President Arevalo a couple of years back was an election that was widely hailed by the population as a new chapter in Guatemala, that could open up doors to more transparency and less corruption. But the uh inauguration of President Arevalo was was marked by an attempt to engage in a pre-inaugural coup and then violence on inauguration day that delayed the inauguration of president Arevalo. It's a really important relationship to the United States because we are neighbors, um but it's also important for the United States to support a pro-democracy leader who is trying to battle corruption and uh, you know, uh and end a culture of impunity that had been an endemic part of Guatemala for many many years. So these are four really important positions. I'm glad we're having this hearing today. Mister Chair, I yield back.

Senator Kaine, thank you. And I uh, Mister Rodriguez and I had a good chat about that uh transition between Jim Itay and uh Reveillaud um back in twenty twenty-three I I happened to uh arrive on the scene there in Guatemala, in the middle of that transition. And I wanna thank now Secretary Rubio, but then Senator Rubio who we worked together um for that

Yep.

peaceful transition to ensure that democracy uh prevailed there. And we had yet another peaceful transition of power, which is so important to demonstrate

Great. Thank you. Thank you, Mr. Chairman, ranking member. And thank you for the opportunity to introduce the President's nominee to serve

Thank you.

as the United States permanent representative to the organization for security and cooperation in Europe, Darryl Owens. It's a privilege to introduce Darryl, not just as a highly qualified nominee, but a fellow Pennsylvanian. a former Senate staffer and a fellow Army officer who's dedicated his career to serving his country. I also want to welcome Daryl's wife, Brooke, a commissioned officer in the United States Air Force Reserve. And there, it says two, but I think three children are with you, right, including a seven-week-old baby. So welcome.

Mm.

Uh, great to have you here and great to have Daryl's parents. Public service is a family commitment, not just an individual one, and we are grateful for your own service, but also for the support you've all given Daryl throughout his career. Uh, Darrell's roots in Western Pennsylvania run deep, and they shape both his character and commitment to service. And like so many from our Commonwealth, he brings a grounded practical approach to leadership, built on a career of hard work, accountability, and a clear sense of duty. He also understands this institution. As a former congressional staffer to Senator Pat Toomey uh and Congressman GT Thompson, Darrell spent years working behind the scenes to support the work of this body. preparing members, coordinating policy, and helping ensure that Congress could effectively carry out its important institutional responsibilities. And that experience matters. It means he approaches this role with a genuine respect for this committee, for its oversight function, and for the importance of maintaining a strong partnership between the legislative and executive branches. In addition to civilian service, Darrell and I share the common thread of service in the United States Army. Him with his deployments in South Korea, Poland and Germany, he continues to serve to this day as an officer in the Army Reserve. And that experience in the military has helped shape his strategic thinking, his leadership, and his understanding, very real understanding of the security challenges facing the United States. And it's that perspective that comes from wearing the uniform, that emphasis of mission, accountability, and putting the country first, that I think is an invaluable uh perspective that you will bring to this important role if confirmed. Professionally, Darrell has built a strong record of public service at the Department of Veterans Affairs, including in the senior leadership role and within congressional legislative affairs. He's demonstrated an ability to manage complex issues, work across institutions and deliver results on behalf of Pennsylvanians and Americans. Now, this role he's been nominated for is an important one. Particularly at this moment, the Organization for Security and Cooperation in Europe sits at the center of many of the pressing security and governance challenges in Europe and Eurasia. at a time of continued instability, strong and credible American leadership in that form, at a time when NATO and uh and the role of many NATO countries is in question, it c- it couldn't be more significant. So I'm glad you're gonna uh be our representative. Darryl brings the unique experience of judgment, the sense of service, and responsibility. I'm confident he will represent the United States with professionalism and integrity, and for that reason I strongly support his nomination and I urge my fellow committee members to support me as well. Thank you, Mr. Chairman.

Senator Kornberg, thank you. And uh I uh I concur with your remarks. Uh, Mr. Owens, I very much enjoyed our time we spent yesterday, and as Senator Kaine pointed out, the importance of this role, not that well known on this side of the pond, but very important. And of course, as it's expanded the aperture, including Central Asia, the Caucasus, uh this is a a very important time for you to be in this very important role, and I think you're very well equipped with your background. to do that and congratulations there's a new dad as well. Uh, and you will be the first witness today, and that is Mister Darrell Owens, nominee to be the US representative to the Organization for Security and Cooperation in Europe. Mister Owens, the floor is yours.

Thank you, Mister Chairman, Mister Ranking Member, Senator McCormick, distinguished members of the committee, thank you for the opportunity to appear t- before you today as the President's nominee to serve as United States Permanent Representative to the Organization for Security and Cooperation in Europe. Senator McCormick, thank you for the heartfelt introduction as well. Mr. Chairman, thank you for the uh time meeting yesterday as well. That was a terrific meeting. Thank you. I'm grateful to President Trump and Secretary Rubio for the confidence in me and for the opportunity to continue to serve my country. Before anything else, I want to acknowledge how meaningful it is for me to sit here today. Earlier in my career, I had the privilege of serving as a Senate staffer. I spent many hours preparing brief materials, coordinating questions, and supporting the work of members of this body. Because of that experience, I have an enormous respect for the role the Senate plays in shaping American foreign policy and exercising constitutional responsibility of advice and consent. I also have tremendous respect for the professional staff who make this institution function every day. Having spent years on that side of the dais, it is both humbling and deeply meaningful to appear before you today on this side of the aisle. Public service has been a central thread of my career. I have had the privilege of serving in uniform as an officer in the United States Army Reserve including time supporting the US military in Europe and as I mentioned earlier I also had the opportunity to work in Congress, both in the House and the Senate, on national security and foreign policy matters. Most recently I served at the Department of Veterans Affairs as Deputy Assistant Secretary for Congressional and Legislative Affairs, and I am grateful to Secretary Collins and my VA colleagues for their dedication in work for our veterans every day. I'd also like to thank my family who are here today, my wife, Brooke, she's been incredible and supportive, even with her own outstanding career and accomplished background, including as an Air Force Reserve Officer.

Holding up.

I'm also joined by my children, Lincoln, Madison,

Try to stay balanced here.

and our brand new little guy, Jackson. And uh he was so excited last night that he didn't sleep at all, in preparation for this hearing. Uh my family is the foundation of everything I do. And I am incredibly grateful for their love and support. I'm also thankful for my parents, Jeff and Mary, who are here today, my mother-in-law Lisa, uh my friends, my colleagues who are here today, who have been supportive throughout my career and who have been very excited to see me take on this new role. If confirmed, I will approach this role with a clear understanding that American leadership in Europe remains essential to our security and prosperity. The United States helped establish the OSCE during the Cold War, with broad support from Congress, as a forum where nations with profoundly different political systems could engage in dialogue, reduce tensions and promote stability across the Euro-Atlantic region. Helsinki's final act articulated a vision of comprehensive security that remains just as relevant today as it did in nineteen seventy-five. For decades, the OSCE has played a valuable role in advancing military stability, economic cooperation and respect for human rights. It has served as a forum for arms control negotiations, confidence building measures, and dialogue among nations that often see the world very differently. Today, the importance of that mission is as clear as ever. Russia's war against Ukraine has fundamentally challenged the European security architecture. At the same time, the OSCE remains one of the few institutions where states with differing perspectives can still engage directly on security issues. If confirmed, I will work closely with our allies and partners to ensure the OSCE continues to serve as a meaningful venue for dialogue, transparency, and conflict prevention. Simultaneously, the organization must remain focused on its core mission. Over time, the OSCE's scope has broadened significantly, and it is important to reform, refocus, and refine to ensure it can effectively meet today's security challenges. If confirmed, I will work with participating states to ensure the organization remains focused effective and capable of advancing peace and stability across the region. Finally, I want to recognize the important role Congress has played in supporting the OSCE since its founding. The bipartisan leadership of the US Helsinki Commission and the engagement of members of Congress in the OSCE Parliamentary Assembly have been instrumental in advancing the principles reflected in the Helsinki Final Act. If confirmed, I look forward to working very closely with this committee, the Helsinki Commission, and the Congress. Well, I thank you for the opportunity to be here today, and I yield.

Mr. Owens, thank you. I got to watch the Daryl Owens fan club there behind you beaming with pride as he shared your remarks uh Mr. Juan Rodriguez nominee to be the US Ambassador

Thank you, sir.

to the Republic of Guatemala Mr. Rodriguez the floor is yours.

Thank you, Chairman Daines. Ranking member Cain and distinguish members of the committee, thank you for the opportunity to appear before you as the President's nominee to serve as Ambassador to the United States, the Republic of Guatemala. I am honored by President's trust President Trump's trust in me for this nomination, and mindful of the responsibility to put the interests of the American people first in every aspect of this role. I want to introduce my wife, Marvie Ann, and my children, Marissa and Ethan, for being here today. I am grateful to my family for their support. Representing the United States abroad is among the highest responsibilities our nation can bestow, and I approach this nomination with humility and respect. for the important and time-honored role of this committee and the constitutional role of the Senate. Guatemala is a vital partner in Central America, bound to the United States by deep connection, economic ties, shared democratic aspirations, and strong people-to-people connections. If confirmed, I will work to ensure that our engagement reflects both our strategic priorities and our enduring commitment to economic growth and regional stability. Guatemala matters to the United States because what happens there directly affects our security, our economy and our border. If confirmed, my approach will be grounded in a clear principle. US engagement must deliver concrete results for Americans, including safer communities, compelling economic opportunities and a more secure and prosperous hemisphere. I will prioritize the protection of US citizens and the security of our personnel in Guatemala. American taxpayer dollars must be used transparently and effectively to advance our interests. I will insist on accountability, discipline, and measurable outcomes in all US funded programs and embassy activities in Guatemala. My efforts will advance America first foreign policy priorities. First, migration must be addressed with urgency and realism. Illegal immigration from Guatemala strains our border. our resources and communities. I will press for even stronger cooperation with the Guatemalan government to stop illegal immigration, disrupt human smuggling networks, and ensure the prompt return of those who do not have a legal basis to stay in the United States. Our message will be clear. Illegal immigration is not a pathway to entry. Second, economic engagement must support American workers, businesses and producers. I will advocate for stronger enforcement of trade rules, aim to reverse unfair practices, and promote opportunities for US companies to compete and win. Expanding economic opportunity in Guatemala can reduce incentives for illegal immigration, but it must be done in a way that strengthens American competitiveness. Third, security cooperation will focus on results. Transnational criminal organizations, narcotics traffickers and gangs including those designated as foreign terrorist organizations, threaten both our nations. I will work to ensure that our security partnerships are targeted and effective to deliver on US priorities to reduce the flow of drugs into our country, dismantle criminal networks and enhance regional stability. Lastly, China's economic expansion in the Western hemisphere threatens US national security, prosperity and critical supply chains. I will work to ensure Guatemala can be a key bulwark against Chinese influence in the region. If confirmed, I will bring a clear-eyed, results-driven approach to this role. I will work closely with Congress to ensure transparency and accountability, and I will not lose sight of those who I serve, the American people. Thank you for your consideration. I'll look forward to your questions.

Mr. Regis, thank you. End of our discussion yesterday. I know you spent a lot of time in uh Guatemala. It will serve you well as uh our next ambassador there.

Thank you, Senator.

Um, Mr. William Trackman, nominated to be US Ambassador of the Republic of Tanzania. Mr. Trackman, the floor is yours.

Thank you, Chairman Daines, Ranking Member Kane, and distinguished committee members. Thank you for the opportunity to appear before you. I'm honored by President Trump's nomination to serve as US Ambassador to the United Republic of Tanzania. I want to thank President Trump and Secretary Rubio for their faith in me, and express my gratitude to my wife, Ellen Trackman, and our four wonderful children, Mira, Turner, Zev, and Lindy. I am personally the product of diplomacy done well. My father was from New Jersey, my w- mother f- was from Fresno, California. My father was a strident libertarian. My mother, on the other hand, worked for the Fresno County Library System and was a member of the SEIU. But across these differences, we always met in the middle and emphasized our common interests in family. While working in the first Trump administration, I often thought of my mother and father of blessed memory. At the Department of Education, I helped enshrine into law protections against sexual harassment under title nine while also codifying due process protections on campuses. We also published important documents on racial equality and on the threat of anti-semitism. In sum, I try to find the win-win. I'm optimistic that when people come to the table, even if they sit down, with divergent interests, they can stand up with mutual respect and shared understanding. That brings me to Tanzania, a country of immense strategic importance. With a population of more than sixty-five million, over a hundred and twenty ethnic groups, and substantial natural resources, Tanzania is vital for supporting regional stability in East Africa. For decades, our nations have cooperated closely and emphasized our shared interests. However, today our relationship faces undeniable challenges. The October twenty twenty twenty-five elections and the violence that followed have raised serious concerns about Tanzania's trajectory as a reliable partner. While I understand that Tanzania has taken positive steps, if confirmed I would ensure that Tanzania lives up to its commitments. I would also push for cooperation in areas that advance American interests and regional stability. If confirmed, my three priorities would be First, advancing American commercial interests in sectors such as mining, energy, tourism, health and technology. Tanzania possesses significant deposits of nickel, graphite and rare earth elements, which are critical to American national security. American companies are poised to responsibly invest in Tanzania, but have confronted consistent regulatory uncertainty. I would advocate for predictable investment conditions codified into law, by Tanzania's National Assembly and help unlock opportunities for both countries. Second, strengthening what works, our security cooperation. Tanzania has been a partner in maritime security and counter-narcotics. I would work with Tanzanian authorities to deepen cooperation where our interests align, including in addressing transnational threats. Third, promoting respect for natural rights. Human liberty is the foundation of stability and prosperity. The Tanzanian constitution itself states that citizens have a right to equality and freedom of religion. But as Justice Scalia noted, it is easy to make promises like these on paper. The key is enforcing those promises. I will also prioritize the safety of American citizens and US personnel in Tanzania, the oldest and most important duty of US diplomatic missions. I also note that Tanzania operates in a highly competitive international environment. In particular, China leverages influence through infrastructure projects and resource development. I would work to demonstrate that partnership with United States, grounded in transparency, offers the best path f- forward for Tanzania's development and for its citizens. Additionally, if confirmed, I will keep this committee informed and support the career diplomats and locally employed staff in Dar es Salaam who serve our country, with dedication and professionalism. Thank you, and I look forward to your questions.

Thank you. It's nice to see your daughter smile there when she got a shout out from dad. And finally, our treasury nominee, the honorable George Holding. Uh, the honorable Holding and I were elected together in two thousand twelve to the house we were both freshmen once upon a time. Uh, George, good to see you back here. He is a nominee to be the United States Director of the European Bank for Reconstruction and Development. Congressman Holding, the floor is yours.

Thank you. Chairman, Ranking Member and distinguished members of the committee. It's an honor to appear before you today as the nominee to serve as the United States Director of the European Bank for Reconstruction and Development, the EBRD. I'd like to thank President Trump on this nomination and Secretary Scott Besant and Assistant Secretary Francis Brooke for their confidence and encouragement. Most importantly, I'd like to thank my wife, Lucy, and our four children whose steadfast support have made possible my nearly twenty years of public service. I'm proud of our four children, Beatrice, Alice, Louisa and Royal, curiosity, resilience and optimism remind me daily of the enduring promise of American leadership in the world. My daughter Beatrice is taking the day off from her important work at our mission at the United Nations to support me today and I'm glad she's here. During my career I've served in roles across law, public policy and business, each of which has shaped my belief in the power of free enterprise and democratic governance to lift nations and individuals alike. Having been an assistant United States attorney, in two thousand and six I was confirmed by the United States Senate as the United States attorney for the Eastern District of North Carolina, a post I held until twenty eleven. From twenty thirteen to twenty twenty one, I represented the Eastern North Carolina congressional district. During my time in the house, I served on the Ways and Means Committee, Budget Committee, Ethics Committee, Foreign Affairs and Judiciary. Since leaving Congress, I have put my experience to work in the private sector, offering advice on geopolitics and political risk. The EBRD was established in nineteen ninety-one following the fall of the Berlin Wall to help nations transition to open market-based democracies. And over the last three decades, it has been an essential instrument in promoting economic freedom and stability in post-Soviet and emerging economies, helping transform fragile and to valued allies and trading partners of the United States. The United States remains the bank's largest shareholder and an influential voice. And as such, our leadership is important to ensuring that the EBRD continues to advance free markets, sound governance, and private sector development rather than contrary political agendas. The bank's mission is not charity. It is a strategic investment in democracy, stability, security and market-based prosperity. Every American tax dollar devoted to international development must be safeguarded ensuring it delivers measurable results and genuine opportunity for the people it seeks to empower the EBRD's focus should remain on nations where its investments have the greatest potential for transformation, particularly across formerly um countries within the Soviet Union where American engagement is critical amid growing great power competition. At the same time, the bank should pursue a disciplined graduation process for advanced European economies that have achieved sufficient market maturity. Having served both in Congress and in the private sector, I'm keenly aware that development institutions succeed only when they remain mission-driven, transparent and efficient. The EBRD must continue to strengthen its governance, preserve its triple-A credit rating and maximize private sector crowding in to make the most of its shareholder provided capital. Investment funds, sovereign wealth funds, and institutional investors represent immense potential for partnership, particularly US private investors. The bank's ability to catalyze those resources to do more with less will determine its relevance and impact in the decade ahead. The EBRD's founding mandate to foster entrepreneurship, strengthen legal systems, and promote open remains as vital today as it was in nineteen ninety one. Upholding that mission while adapting to new global realities is the task before us. As Chairman, members of the committee throughout my career, I've been guided by the conviction that economic freedom is the foundation principle of political freedom. Strong markets, democratic governance and rule of law sustain one another. The work of the EBRD is not only an investment in prosperity abroad, it is a safeguard for peace,

Conference Holdings,

Yeah.

thank you and thank you for allowing us to uh leave the private sector and come back into public service as well uh Mister Owen's gonna start with you it was a very Great to speak with you yesterday, enjoyed our conversation. A lot of people forget that Central Asia has a long-standing tradition of participation within the organization security cooperation in Europe, or of course OSCE. The question is, how would you be equipped at OSCE to help advance US interests in Central Asia?

M- Mr. Chairman, thank you very much for that question. I also enjoyed our dialogue yesterday on this question. I think uh the OSCE is a very large body, fifty-seven member nations from Vladivost- from Vancouver to Vladivostok. So I think people often forget, like as you mentioned, that the Central Asian nations are members of OSCE. In fact, four of our field missions of the OSCE uh are there in in the uh Central Asian nations. So if confirmed, I would look cl- work cl- I wanna work closely with those uh missions there to ensure that the opportunities there that present themselves especially in and uh combating uh transactional crime and money laundering et cetera and and countering, especially Russian and Chinese influence is of utmost importance. I think right now because in my personal opinion uh Russia's been very focused on Ukraine and I think they've taken their ball, their eye off the ball in the Central Asian nations. And I think it presents an incredible opportunity for the United States to engage those uh those nations and work together and especially now that, Armenia and I Azerbaijan have a peace deal.

Mr. Jones, you brought up Ukraine. Um, the OSCE was originally created to advance peace and stability through political dialogue I think the OSCE in my view has experienced a bit of mission creep over the years and probably saying that uh kindly. Uh, Mister Rollins, how can the OSCE reinvest into its core mission and direct greater attention to helping end the war in Ukraine?

Mister Chairman, great question. Uh, and if confirmed, one of my top priorities will be to reform and refocus the OSCE. Back when it was founded in nineteen seventy five, I'm I'm a student of history, so when the Helsinki Accords were founded uh in nineteen seventy five, the OSCE was born. Uh, the main purpose of this was to get the Soviets and the Americans to talk, and kind of a broader uh European uh backdrop for regional security. it has the mission has ballooned since then and it's if we can refocus that mission, get it back to its very core elements in the in the that are uh put out in the final act, I think it c can really be an effective organization, especially considering who the who the membership is.

Thank you. Um my last question, Mister Holding, um I've long said that energy security is national security. I support EBRD's investment in energy focused projects. I do have some concerns about the disproportionate number of projects that are intermittent energy sources, they don't produce baseload power. Now well in the fourth year, Russia's war on Ukraine has clearly demonstrated the need for Europe to invest in baseload power generation capabilities. If confirmed, how would you embrace a more strategic outlook for EBRD investment portfolio?

Senator, I appreciate the question, that's a very good question, very relevant. The um, I support uh all of the above energy policy for the EBRD. The um you know, the EBRD, as I mentioned in my opening statement, is is not a charity. You know, the deals that the EBRD is involved in have to make uh good business sense. Um so when looking at energy sources, whether it's directly investing in a energy source or investing in deals, real you know, what energy sources it relied on, I would have a all the above approach, the um and not be biased against one form of energy or another.

Thank you. Senator Kaine.

Thank you, Mister Chair, and to the witnesses, um Mister Owens, I wanna encourage you, if you haven't already, to reach out to former Virginia Governor Jim Gilmore, who held your position during President Trump's first term. I know Governor Gilmore well. I supported him in his confirmation of the position. He was previous to his elected office service was an army intelligence officer serving in Europe, so was really uh perfectly suited for the position. I think he might have a lot to share with you. My questions are gonna be to Mister Rodriguez. Mister Rodriguez, um, in December of twenty twenty three, both Chairman Dayens and then uh me together with a number of colleagues from the committee on two separate visits, went to Guatemala to try to interrupt what we believed might have been a coup in progress to deprive the elected President Arevalo of taking office in January of twenty twenty four. Um, both of us in a bipartisan way delivered some tough love messages to outgoing President Yamite uh and encouragement to the uh elected President, President Arevalo, and then we also spoke with the American Chamber of Commerce, business leaders and others to say that it was very, very important that the will of the Guatemalan electorate be respected. So I want to thank my colleague, um, Secretary Rubio, at the time Senator Rubio was very engaged in these efforts and there was a strong bipartisan commitment on this committee, but generally in Congress, to see that there was a peaceful transition of power. We're now a couple years in, and this year is a pretty important one for that effort. Um, this year there will be a set of judicial elections, the Supreme Electoral Tribunal, the Constitutional

Thank you, Senator Cain. Thank you. I think it's very important for the embassy, uh, to first of all engage with candidates that are running for office um and engage in the sense that I think it's important for them to let candidates know what the US priorities are. I however do not believe that the embassy should be used to endorse any specific candidate.

I agree with that.

I think that that's crosses the line to interference with domestic politics and I would not be supportive of that. As far as how we ensure a transparent and fair election in June of next year, I think first of all the United States has to speak for the rule of law. I think we have to continue to support the ongoing elections um that are occurring in in in Guatemala. Um when I say support, I think we should ensure that the domestic process is observed. that there is no interference from uh malign actors um and that the uh the Guatemala is determined to determine for itself who's gonna be their representative in these ins- important institutions. Um as far as I can tell

And and just on the malign actors point, you would agree with me that that pushing back against interference by malign actors would include not only malign actors foreign malign actors but but domestic malign actors who are trying to interrupt the democratic process in Guatemala.

I completely concur.

Yep.

Um, so far I believe that the tribunal uh the electoral tribunal has already been elected. Uh, right now there's um an election process going on for the attorney general's uh position. Um, and as far as I can see, things are proceeding according to domestic law, and I think that's We should we should support that.

The current Attorney General, uh, Consuelo Porras has been subject to significant sanctions from the United States. Um, if confirmed, would you continue to carry out US policy with respect to that official who's been sanctioned by the United States?

Senator, I'm not aware as to the particulars as to why Consuelo Porras has been sanctioned. Uh, the State Department has not shared that information with me, so I cannot opine as to whether or not what the basis for the sanctions are. However, um, I'm there to serve at the instructions of the president and the secretary, and I will fulfill that those instructions as the president's representative in Guatemala.

Do you know uh Ms. Porras?

No, sir. I've never met her.

Have you had any discussions with anyone at the State Department of the Administration about Ms. Porras?

No, um, in the sense, Senator, that They told me the information was classified and as a layperson, I'm not entitled to receive that information.

Um. Tha- thank you for that. You're back.

Right. Thank you, Senator Kane. Senator McCormick.

Thank you, Mr. German ranking member, and uh to all the nominees, congratulations to you, to you and your families for being here today. Uh, Mr. Owens, let me start with you, since uh Russia's full-scale invasion of Ukraine in twenty twenty two, the OSCE has faced significant institutional strain. with consensus-based decision-making repeatedly obstructing the core principles of the Helsinki accords, including sovereignty, territorial integrity and peaceful resolution of disputes, all being openly violated. Much like its UN reform agenda, the Trump administration has argued that the OSCE has potential as a forum for European security dialogue, but it must demonstrate efficiency, focus and results that are aligned with US national interest. If confirmed, how would you advance those US objectives while preserving the OSCE as a viable forum for dialogue to prevent wars and instability in Europe.

Senator, thank you very much for that that question. Uh, the Russian war against Ukraine has been horrible, it's countless atrocities. Uh, the White House has continued to prioritize trying to, uh, find a peaceful resolution, uh, to that that that conflict obviously. Uh, and President Trump and Secretary Rubio are both committed to peace and long-term stability in Ukraine. And uh if confirmed uh my my rule I think would be to get the OSC to a place where, if asked, in a post-conflict Ukraine, the OSC would be ready to jump in and be a credible uh a body to help with the the post-war peace uh in that uh that. But as you mentioned, then it comes with significant reforms, it's trying to get back to the the uh the core roots of what the OSC was meant to do, and that is dialogue. And I think right now the OSC for a long time has had uh bodies that and uh uh my my colleagues there if confirmed have been talking uh past each other, not with each other. And I think, you know, while others look at OSCE as a as a problem because Russia's involved in, in the organization, I see that as an opportunity. I think having Russia involve in the OSCE to bring that dialogue, to work with them constructively, I think is a is a is an opportunity.

Thank you. Mister Rodriguez, welcome. Uh, thanks for being here today and for your willingness to serve. US Guatemalan relations are at a high point, marked by significant growth in bilateral cooperation, on migration enforcement, and counter-narcotics. At the same time, President Arvelo has faced persistent obstruction from corrupt networks embedded in Guatemala's judiciary and the Attorney General's office limiting his ability to govern effectively. If confirmed, how do you plan to sustain the strong bilateral relationship with the Trump administration while navigating those domestic political constraints the president faces and what types of programs will you advocate for with the State Department's leadership or when soliciting America first opportunity fund resources.

Senator, first of all, I think the you build on the foundation that's already been established, and there's a strong inter-agency cooperation with the Guatemalan government to fight narco-trafficking, to fight the narco-financing of of political organizations. I think that can certainly be furthered. Um, with respect to aid, foreign aid now is being handled by the uh the embassy um and there is a January global health uh memorandum of understanding which has f um earmarked about sixty five million dollars of aid that's gonna go towards um life-saving um a financial assistance and I think you continue to pursue that financial assistance and training of uh the inter-agency um task force.

Thank you. Uh Congressman Holding, thanks for being here today. Thanks for your uh decades of of of great service and uh your market uh oriented perspective that I know you'll bring to the EBRD, which is very relevant because many uh caution and warn that the EBRD has really strayed from that market's orientation. Uh and uh, has strayed from his core mission. What reforms would you advocate to sharpen the EBRD's private sector mandate to better leverage private capital alongside EBRD financing and what criteria would you consider and use for graduating countries?

Thank you, Senator, that's a a excellent question. The the EBRD needs to be a uh demand signal to private capital. the particularly US investors. Um, yeah, I envision if the EBRD is successful, it will be of have a top-tier um uh vetting system, you know, know your client, know your customer, uh the diligencing of your counterparties. Uh, I think that's one thing that keeps a l some US private capital out of the markets uh that the EBRD is focused on is whether it be corruption or just not knowing the um your counter parties, but if the EBRD can have top class um uh diligence on the counter parties, I think that will be a good way to attract private capital becoming involved in the deals that the EBRD EBRD does. Uh to the last part of your question, the you know, how do you graduate um a country, um you know, should I be confirmed one of the first things that I hope to learn more about is, how is the EBRD looking at that right now? It's my understanding just from my reading that the Czech Republic is the only country that has been graduated uh out of the EBRD's uh jurisdiction and mandate and I'd like to l look at that process very closely and um find ways to accelerate it and have a clear criteria for how you do that. And would be more than delighted to work with the committee as I learn more, um, about that process.

Yeah, it's w- it's, the fact that there's one example of a graduation is probably instructive.

Yes, sir.

Thank you.

Senator Kaine.

Um, Mister Rodriguez, I wanna come back to you, um. One of the challenges in Guatemala has been corruption. And at the request of the country in two thousand seven, the UN established an anti-corruption organization called SISG that then exercised some independence to engage in anti-corruption investigations and prosecutions including people that were connected to the tenure of the t- two presidents previous, uh, President Jimmy Morales. Um, Morales refused to extend the mandate of SISG. I believe it was in twenty seventeen or twenty eighteen. And since that time, there had been the emergence of a group known widely in Guatemala and elsewhere as the Pact of the Corrupt, um, that included the Attorney General, uh, General Porras, and this was the reason for her sanctioning. Um, that SISG is not in operation any longer, but in conversations I think you've suggested that you had concerns about SISG's, um, uh, mandate, eh, in the sense of it may have been a violation of Guatemalan sovereignty. obviously battling corruption in Guatemala is really important, and that would be in the US interest as well as in the interest of US businesses that would want to participate in the Guatemalan economy. Did you have concerns about SISIG and and you might describe that, but more generally, what do you think we should do to assist Guatemalan officials who wanna battle the culture of corruption in the country?