United States Energy Secretary Chris Wright has visited Venezuela to meet with interim President Delcy Rodriguez, as his country pushes forward with plans for more foreign oil investment in the region.Wednesday’s meeting marked the first time a member of President Donald Trump’s cabinet has visited Venezuela.Recommended Stories list of 3 itemsend of listOverall, it was a rare instance of a high-level US official visiting the South American country, given the fractious ties Washington has had with Venezuela’s socialist government.But Wright struck an optimistic note as he spoke at a news conference with Rodriguez that was broadcast on Venezuelan state television.“It is an honour to stand here with you today and to be among the tremendous people of Venezuela,” Wright said.He then proceeded to acknowledge the tensions in recent decades between the two countries.But Wright hinted at change under the Trump administration. He also indicated the US president would take a hemisphere-wide approach to his campaign slogan, “Make America Great Again”.“Our countries share a long history. It has gone through different chapters, as all relationships do,” Wright said.“But I bring today a message from President Trump. He is passionately committed to absolutely transforming the relationship between the United States and Venezuela, part of a broader agenda to make the Americas great again.”A new era of expansionTrump has repeatedly outlined his vision for a new era of “manifest destiny“, …
