Announcement coincides with President Obama’s visit to country
Randy Berry scheduled to speak to participants on March 29
Gay U.S. ambassador to Dominican Republic receives sustained applause at event
Secretary of State made no mention of global LGBT rights
Formal announcement to take place at country’s embassy in D.C.
Envoy has visited more than 20 countries since April
Envoy just returned from 11-day trip to region
Randy Berry to visit five countries during 11-day trip
Proposal passed by 25-14 vote margin; seven countries abstained
U.S. among countries to back proposal
