Addres by the President of the Government of Costa Rica, Mr. Miguel A. Rodríguez before the Parliament of Canada, on the occassion of the signature of the free trade agreement between the governments of Canada and Costa Rica

April 23, 2001

Ottawa, Canada

It is a great pleasure to be here. During the last three days we had a historic opportunity in Quebec on the ocassion of the III Summit of the Americas to engage in a joint effort to develop and implement a common political, economic and social program that ensure stability, peace and prosperity in our region. We must be proud of our achievements.

The honour to be here today is derived of such a process of mutual engagement in bringing our region closer. We must recognize and congratulate Canada for its leadership in such a process.

Canada´s firm commitment to diversify and explore new ways of cooperation and approach with the countries of the Americas has contributed definitely to the results of the Summit. But also, it has allowed us to show today that trade and economic liberalization within the region based on same rights and obligations between a smaller economy as Costa Rica and a developed country is not only possible, but it serves as a building block for the integration of the Western Hemisphere.

As Canada, much of our economic progress and social development is due to trade. So we also know how vital it is to open new markets. We understand the links between trade liberalization, prosperity and social progress. This is why Costa Rica has signed a Free Trade Agreement with Mexico, Chile, the Dominican Republica and, of course, the Central American countries. This is why we are committed to the conclusion of a Free Trade Area of the Americas. This is why we were so interested in a Free Trade Agreement with Canada.

But not only because of trade. The signature of a bilateral Free Trade Agreement and Environmental and Labor Cooperation Agreements between our nations is taken a leadership role in nurturing the deep and old friendship between Canada and Costa Rica. A friendship built on shared values about democracy, access to education, social development, diversity, and sustainable development. A renovated alliance between our countries that will promote and encourage new partnerships in the region.

Much has been achieved in order to improve the quality of life of all of our citizens, which is our final objetive. But much remains to be done. There are enourmous challenges in front of us. I feel very confident though on our ability to face and overcome them successfully. Being here today for celebrating the strenghtening of our bilateral economic relationship is proof of that and must encourage us to continue the journey in getting closer the Americas.