Peter Cianchette was confirmed by the U.S. Senate today as U.S. ambassador to Costa Rica.

Cianchette, Maine’s Republican National Committeeman, was nominated for the post by President Bush in February. At an April 17 public hearing in front of the U.S. Senate Foreign Relations Committee, Cianchette said he will focus on strengthening trade between the South American country and the United States, and also work to reduce the amount of drugs being grown in the country.

U.S. Sens. Olympia Snowe (R) and Susan Collins (R) both introduced Cianchette at the hearing, and supported his nomination.

Snowe issued the following statement:

“Peter’s confirmation is a proud moment not only for him and his family, but for the entire state of Maine. Peter has been a good friend of mine for many years and is someone for whom I’ve had the utmost regard and highest esteem for. His confirmation is an appropriate reflection of his intellect, ability and commitment to public service. Peter brings a wealth of experience in solving problems and securing results from both his tenure in the Maine State Legislature from 1996 to 2000, and his extensive business background. He is someone who comes from a tradition of public service – as part of a family that has contributed tremendously to our state over the years. His stellar record of combined public and private sector service speaks to his ability to well and ably represent the interests of the United States as Ambassador to Costa Rica."

Collins issued the following statement:

"Peter is a dedicated, hard working and well-liked individual who will serve our nation well as U.S Ambassador to Costa Rica.  The United States and Costa Rica have a long history of friendship and cooperation, and Peter is an outstanding choice to further strengthen this relationship. He will, no doubt, start from the ground running in his new position and make Maine and the rest of the nation proud of his public service."