Commerce Secretary Announces He Will Lead U.S. Business Executives to Peru and Chile

Following his meeting today with Peruvian President Alejandro Toledo, Commerce Secretary Don Evans announced he will lead a delegation of U.S. business executives to Peru and Chile in early December.

Evans will lead the mission as part of an agreement President Bush and President Toledo made during a visit to Peru in March.

“I look forward to leading this trade mission at the request of President Bush,” said Evans. “The Bush Administration is committed to increasing trade to these two countries and the entire Latin American region. This mission, in addition to the Andean Trade Preference Act, the Free Trade Area of the Americas, a free trade agreement with Chile and the President’s intent to negotiate a free trade agreement with Central America are examples of this commitment. These important initiatives will contribute to growth, stability, peace, and prosperity in the hemisphere.”

President Toledo agreed the business development mission, along with the Andean Trade Preference Act, will increase two-way trade, foster economic growth and develop and improve living standards in America, Peru and the Andean region.

Evans said “bilateral trade offers significant opportunities for American workers and businesses while promoting economic security and stability in Chile.” Following the recent passage of Trade Promotion Authority, he said “President Bush agreed to quickly conclude negotiations on a free trade agreement with Chile.” The Bush Administration hopes to complete negotiations by the end of the year.

Evans and the delegation will begin the mission in Lima, Peru, December 2-4, 2002. They will continue on to Santiago, Chile, December 5-6. Participants in the business development mission will likely include representatives from the information and communication technology, energy, machinery, and equipment, medical and manufacturing sectors.

The business delegation will develop contacts within the Peruvian, Chilean and other Andean governments, as well as meet with potential business partners.

On the trip, Evans will also highlight corporate citizenship and active involvement by U.S. businesses in the communities where they operate in the United States and abroad.

Further information about the trade mission, including requests for applications, may be directed to the Office of Business Liaison, 202-482-1360; fax: 202-482-4054. Applications and additional information are also available at http://www.doc.gov/latinamericatrademission.

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