US Biden Appoints Kennedy's Daughter and Michelle Kwan as Ambassadors

by Kwon Jaehee

Published 16 Dec.2021 10:13(KST)

Caroline Kennedy, Former US Ambassador to Japan under Obama Administration,
Nominated as Ambassador to Australia
Olympic Figure Skating Medalist Michelle Kwan Appointed Ambassador to Belize

▲Michelle Kwan (41), Olympic figure skating medalist appointed as ambassador to Belize [Image source=AP Yonhap News]

[Asia Economy Reporter Kwon Jae-hee] U.S. President Joe Biden has appointed Michelle Kwan (41), an Olympic figure skating medalist, as ambassador to Belize. Caroline Kennedy (63), who served as ambassador to Japan during the Barack Obama administration, has been nominated as ambassador to Australia.

On the 15th (local time), the White House announced these appointments through a press release.

Caroline Kennedy, daughter of former President John F. Kennedy, is a longtime friend and supporter of President Biden. She expressed early support during last year's presidential election process and also appeared as a speaker at the Democratic National Convention that confirmed Biden as the presidential candidate.

The Biden administration has strengthened its stance against China and emphasized the importance of the Indo-Pacific region. The appointment of Kennedy is interpreted as reflecting the Biden administration's priorities.

▲Caroline Kennedy appointed as Australian Ambassador [Image source=AP Yonhap News]

Nominee Kennedy served as ambassador to Japan from 2013 to 2017 and is well-versed in regional issues.

In a statement, Kennedy said, "If confirmed, I will do my best to repay this debt," adding, "I will work with the Australian government to strengthen the alliance and strive to overcome the climate crisis."

President Biden also nominated Michelle Kwan, a figure skater who won a silver medal at the 1998 Nagano Winter Olympics and a bronze medal at the 2002 Salt Lake City Winter Olympics, as ambassador to Belize.