Chris Andino

Chris Andino is the Director for Western Hemisphere Programs at the U.S. Department of State’s Bureau of International Narcotics and Law Enforcement Affairs (INL) since July 2021.  In that capacity, he serves as coordinator for the Department’s foreign assistance efforts on rule of law, countering transnational organized crime and corruption, supporting secure communities, and stemming the flow of narcotics and other illicit goods through the Americas.   

Chris most recently served as the Political Counselor and Acting Deputy Chief of Mission in Buenos Aires, Argentina, leading the bilateral relationship through two presidential transitions.  Previously, Chris served as INL Deputy Director in Kabul from 2018-2019, as Political Counselor in Panama from 2015-2018, as Political Officer in Office of Mexican Affairs from 2013-2015, as the Special Assistant to INL Assistant Secretary William R. Brownfield 2012-2013, as political-military officer in Kuwait 2010-2012, and political officer in Libya 2008-2010.  Chris served as a vice consul in Colombia.  He holds numerous Department of State awards and commendations. 

Prior to entering the Foreign Service, Chris was an accomplished transit bus driver.  In 2002, Chris placed 17th overall on the 4th-place team at the Virginia State Bus Roadeo.  Despite holding a bachelor's degree in international relations from the University of Virginia, Chris imposes his lifelong love of the Iowa Hawkeyes on his wife and two children.  He speaks Spanish, and has forgotten almost all of his Arabic.