At an October 10 program in recognition of Hispanic Heritage Month, the AS/COA brought together experts to look at the importance of Hispanic immigrants to the U.S. economy. Speakers focused on how the economic downturn is affecting the U.S. Hispanic population.

In a September 25 speech hosted by AS/COA, Argentine President Cristina Fernández de Kirchner outlined positive steps in her country in recent years, including a drop in unemployment, one of Argentina's longest periods of economic growth, and a focus on important sectors ranging from technology to energy.

In a September 24 event, leaders from 11 countries in the Western Hemisphere launched the Pathways to Prosperity in the Americas initiative, providing a forum to deepen trade ties and cooperation. U.S. President George W. Bush urged congressional action on pending trade deals with Panama and Colombia.

At an AS/COA luncheon, President Álvaro Uribe described the transformation witnessed during his administration in Colombia, particularly in the fields of security and economic growth.

President of Paraguay Fernando Lugo, who assumed office in August and represents a switch from the political party that ruled for over 60 years, described the historic nature of his administration. “Paraguay has changed and we are inviting you all to be part of this new enterprise."

During his acceptance speech for Americas Society’s Gold Insigne, Brazilian President Luiz Inácio Lula da Silva spoke optimistically about his country’s emergence as a global player saying, “Brazil finally has found its destiny and intends to transform itself into a great nation.” 

On September 17, the COA hosted a panel discussion on Capitol Hill to discuss the pending Free Trade Agreement between the United States and Panama. The forum provided an opportunity to analyze the future of trade links between the two countries.