Gov. Rick Scott to host 2017 Latin American Summit

TALLAHASSEE, Fla. - Today, Governor Rick Scott announced that he will host the 2017 Latin American Summit on October 2 in Miami to discuss the important relationship Florida shares with the region. The Latin American Summit will bring together world leaders to improve current partnerships and build new relationships that will better serve the interests of Florida families, generate economic prosperity and enhance democracy and human rights throughout Latin America.

Governor Scott said, "When I was elected Governor, I made a commitment to work every day to listen to Florida families and fight for what's most important to them. As the unrest and oppression continue in Cuba and Venezuela, I am hearing from more and more Floridians who are expressing the need for change in Cuba and Venezuela. I join them in demanding democracy and freedom across Latin America.

"In recent months, we have seen Venezuela slip into complete chaos under the brutal and oppressive dictatorship of Nicolas Maduro. We have seen food and medicine shortages, violence in the streets and economic uncertainty. Sadly, we have seen this before. What's happening in Venezuela is an echo of the brutal oppression that continues to cripple the lives of millions of Cubans. We know that peace and prosperity go hand in hand, and nations who embrace human rights and democracy thrive in our global economy.

"I am honored to host the 2017 Latin American Summit to connect leaders from around the world to discuss the issues impacting Latin America. Without freedom and democracy, the region's economy suffers. I look forward to building new relationships that will enhance democracy and human rights throughout Latin America."

For more information about the 2017 Latin American Summit, click HERE. A list of speakers will be released leading up to the event.