OTR: Ambassador Hector Morales – Economic Developments in Americas

Economic Developments in Americas

Ambassador Hector Morales
Managing Director and Chairman of Infrastructure & Energy Capital, Latin America, Macquarie Capital
Former U.S. Permanent Representative to the Organization of American States
Former U.S. Executive Director to the Inter-American Development Bank

About the Topic
The topic of economic development in the Americas is especially timely as countries across the region confront major challenges and opportunities shaped by inflation, migration, supply-chain shifts, technological transformation, climate pressures, and evolving global trade relationships. Economic conditions throughout Latin America and the Caribbean have direct implications for prosperity, democratic stability, and security across the hemisphere. Ambassador Morales will speak to the importance of strengthening regional partnerships, expanding investment, supporting innovation, and creating inclusive economic growth and their importance to ensuring long-term resilience and shared prosperity throughout the Americas.

About the Speaker
Ambassador Hector Morales is an American diplomat with a distinguished career in diplomacy, public service, and international business. He served as the 18th United States Ambassador to the Organization of American States (OAS), where he worked closely with leaders across the Western Hemisphere on issues including democratic governance, regional cooperation, trade, and economic opportunity. In addition to his diplomatic service, Ambassador Morales has held senior leadership roles in the private sector including as the US Executive Director to the Inter-American Development Bank (IADB) and as Senior Vice President of Viamericas Corporation. His career has focused on fostering collaboration between governments, businesses, and civil society to encourage sustainable growth and regional stability. He received his BA in History from Columbia College and his JD from the University of Texas School of Law.