Deputy Assistant Secretary of State Craig Kelly Visits Honduras

January 6, 2010

TEGUCIGALPA - Deputy Assistant Secretary of State Craig Kelly visited Honduras January 5-6 to underscore continuing U.S. support for fulfillment of the San Jose-Tegucigalpa Accord. Deputy Assistant Secretary Kelly reiterated that the United States believes that important work remains to be done to re-establish the democratic and constitutional order in Honduras and promote national reconciliation. Expeditious formation of a government of national unity and the establishment of a truth commission are important next steps.

While in Tegucigalpa, Mr. Kelly and Ambassador Llorens exchanged views on how to move forward with President Zelaya, President-elect Lobo, de facto government leader Micheletti, and political, civic and business leaders. Mr. Kelly also congratulated "Pepe" Lobo on his election and expressed the willingness of the United States to work with President Lobo's new government to help it meet the challenges it faces once the Accord has been implemented. Deputy Assistant Secretary Kelly encouraged Honduran leaders to make decisions in support of democracy and the normalization of Honduras's ties to the international community.

In his talks, Mr. Kelly also emphasized the concern of the United States about the deteriorated economic and fiscal situation confronting Honduras and the importance for Honduras to normalize its relations as quickly as possible with the international community; the help that the international community can provide to the Honduran people will be indispensable in overcoming the economic hardships that the country is experiencing. Mr. Kelly noted that prompt implementation of the remaining elements of the Accord is the best pathway to restoring the standing of Honduras with the international community.