Six Central American presidents recently joined President George W. Bush at the White House as he defended the Central American Free Trade Agreement.
The six Central American presidents included Enrique Bolaos of Nicaragua, Ricardo Maduro of Honduras, Abel Pacheco of Costa Rica, Oscar Berger of Guatemala, Tony Saca of El Salvador and Leonel Fernandez of the Dominican Republic.
President Bush insists that the Central American Free Trade Agreement (CAFTA) would bring “stability and security” to the United States as well as the six other nations it involves. According to Voice of America,
After meeting at the White House, Bolaos said President Bush “is totally in favor of CAFTA.” President Ricardo Maduro of Honduras pointed out the benefits to his and neighboring countries, saying, “The approval of (CAFTA-DR) will give our government the possibility to generate highly sustainable economic growth.”
Supporters say this economic growth will decrease illegal immigration to the U.S. by reducing poverty and creating new jobs in these countries. The Salvadoran president also asked the U.S. to aid immigrants already here. “I discussed immigration reforms with President Bush, and I found him receptive,” Saca told VOA.
“CAFTA brings benefits to all sides. For the newly emerging democracies of Central America, CAFTA would bring new investment that means good jobs and higher standards for their workers,” said Bush.
Bush may have a tough time getting the CAFTA passed by congress because it is opposed by many Democratic lawmakers as well as some Republican lawmakers. It may be voted on before the month is over.
Chris is a staff writer for murdok. Visit murdok for the latest ebusiness news.
