The U.S. Chamber of Commerce, along with the Association of American Chambers of Commerce in Latin America and the Caribbean (AACCLA), hosted a conference in Washington, DC, featuring prominent leaders from the United States and Latin America. The event, known as the "Forecast on Latin America and the Caribbean" (FOLAC), included U.S. Deputy Secretary of State Christopher Landau and Dominican Republic President Luis Abinader among its speakers.
Deputy Secretary Landau highlighted the Trump Administration's focus on Latin America, stating that "Latin America is at the very center of our world." He emphasized a vision for economic growth driven by the private sector, describing it as a powerful force for progress and innovation. Landau also reaffirmed the administration's commitment to commercial diplomacy as a key aspect of U.S. foreign policy.
President Abinader, speaking virtually, stressed the significance of a robust private sector in addressing regional challenges. He expressed optimism about building a future with opportunity and mutual respect across the Americas.
Neil Herrington, senior vice president for the Americas at the U.S. Chamber, noted that strengthening trade and investment ties between the U.S., Latin America, and the Caribbean is crucial amid global economic uncertainties. He pointed out that leveraging private sector innovation can lead to competitiveness and opportunities for businesses and citizens in these regions.
The FOLAC conference serves as an annual platform for public and private sector leaders to discuss regional economic integration priorities. This year's agenda covered topics such as U.S. policy priorities in Latin America, trade facilitation, private sector investment, artificial intelligence, and agricultural trade.
For more details about AACCLA's activities, visit their website.
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