Washington:A senior US State Department official, Sarah Rogers, reportedly received an $11,900 vacation in the Mediterranean, funded by Irish billionaire Patrick Collison, as per a financial disclosure reported by The Washington Post.

According to Anadolu Agency – English, Rogers, who is the undersecretary of state for public diplomacy and public affairs, described the trip as a gift from Collison, a personal friend and co-founder of Stripe. The trip took place one month after she started her role, which involves shaping international perceptions of US policies.

Rogers traveled with a group that included economist Tyler Cowen on Collison's private aircraft. The vacation was organized before her confirmation, and she disclosed the trip to government authorities, stating its estimated value reflected high-end commercial airfares and other costs.

A State Department official confirmed that Rogers has never been involved in any government matters concerning Stripe and emphasized her adherence to ethical standards. Collison's spokesperson mentioned that such trips with friends have been a tradition for eight years, with no business meetings conducted during the vacation.

Federal ethics regulations generally prohibit government officials from accepting gifts related to their positions unless stemming from genuine friendships, requiring officials to assess if such gifts could cast doubt on their impartiality.