Washington: Secretary of State Marco Rubio, newly sworn into office, declared that the United States will strive to prevent and avoid conflicts while prioritizing national security and core values. Rubio, a former senator from Florida, made these remarks during a welcoming ceremony at the State Department, emphasizing that President Donald Trump's primary international policy objective is to promote peace without compromising American interests.
According to Yonhap News Agency, Rubio reiterated Trump's foreign policy mission, which focuses on advancing American interests defined as enhancing the nation's strength, safety, and prosperity. During his address, Rubio acknowledged the inevitability of conflicts due to human nature but insisted that such conflicts should not jeopardize national security or the country's core values. This aligns with Trump's inaugural address, where he expressed a desire to minimize military engagements and focus on resolving and avoiding wars.
Rubio emphasized the importance of aligning national interests with other countries, emphasizing collaboration with nations whose interests coincide with those of the U.S. Earlier in the day, Rubio was officially sworn in by Vice President J.D. Vance at the White House, marking him as the first Cabinet-level official confirmed in the Trump administration. During the ceremony, Rubio reiterated his commitment to prioritizing U.S. interests in foreign policy, in line with Trump's campaign promises.
In his Senate confirmation hearing, Rubio highlighted the need for a serious review of North Korea policy to reduce the risk of unintended conflict on the Korean Peninsula and prevent a nuclear arms race. Trump's nomination of Rubio in November was accompanied by praise for his advocacy for national interests and strong alliances.
Rubio's background includes his birth in 1971 to Cuban immigrants, his education at the University of Florida and the University of Miami Law School, and his political career as a city commissioner and speaker of the Florida House of Representatives before serving as a U.S. senator from Florida since 2011.