US claims Paraguayan VP involved in significant corruption

WASHINGTON, Aug 12 (KUNA) -- The US is designating Paraguayan Vice President Hugo Velazquez and Yacyreta Bi-National Entity Legal Counsel Juan Carlos "Charly" Duarte for involvement in significant corruption, including bribery of a public official and interference in public processes, Secretary of State Antony Blinken said Friday.
Duarte, a close personal and professional associate of Vice President Velazquez, offered a bribe to a Paraguayan public official in order to obstruct an investigation that threatened the Vice President and his financial interests.
Corrupt acts such as these also contribute to diminished confidence in the government and public perceptions of corruption and impunity within the office of the Paraguayan Vice President.
Additionally, Duarte's act of corruption abused and exploited his powerful and privileged public position within the Yacyreta Bi-National Entity, risking public confidence in one of Paraguay's most vital economic assets.
As part of this action, the Department is also designating Velazquez's immediate family members. (end) rsr.lr