TORONTO 

US President Joe Biden met on Tuesday with his Uruguayan counterpart Luis​​​​​​​ Lacalle Pou, according to a statement by the White House.

During their meeting, Biden congratulated Lacalle Pou for receiving the Gold Insignia award from the Council of the Americas.

Biden also lauded Uruguay as a regional and global model for democratic governance.

"President Biden applauded President Lacalle Pou for his support for Ukraine, his principled defense for fundamental freedoms in Venezuela, and his commitment to ensure the Americas Partnership for Economic Prosperity accelerates regional integration, inclusive economic prosperity, and greater opportunity through sustainable trade and investment," the statement said.

Two leaders also explored ways to expand the bilateral economic relationship, increase joint efforts to combat climate change and further strengthen security cooperation.