An expert panel discussed the future of the trade bloc, a coalition centered on free trade, economic integration, and foreign investment, as well as an eye toward Asia.

Panelists:

• Amb. Carlos Urrutia, Colombian Ambassador to the U.S.
• Barbara Kotschwar, Research Fellow, Peterson Institute for International Economics and Co-Author of  “The Next Big Thing? The Trans Pacific Partnership and Latin America,”  in Americas Quarterly
• Chris Ryan, CEO, Lakeland Industries
• Sidney N. Weiss, Attorney, Customs and International Trade Issues
• Eric Farnsworth, Vice President, Council of the Americas and the Americas Society (Moderator)

In a conversation with Special Advisor for 100,000 Strong in the Americas Kathleen Kennedy Townsend, Maryland Governor Martin O’Malley discussed his views on trade, immigration reform, and how immigrants impact U.S. competitiveness. “We believe that our future is very closely connected to opportunities and the rising standard of living in Central and South America,” said O'Malley.