In 2016，President Ortega secured a third consecutive term in office by joining hands with his wife Rosario Murillo as vice-president. As a result of the social protest and uncertainty in financial viability，construction of the Canal project was delayed again. Nicaraguan economy showed the strongest growth among Latin American countries despite regional slowdown. In terms of climate vulnerability，Nicaragua is the fourth most vulnerable country in the world. Nicaragua maintained close political and economic relationship with Venezuela，and its ties with the US remained strained.