At the launch for the second issue of Americas Quarterly, Admiral Jim Stavridis, who directs U.S. Southern Command, discussed his view of the security situation in the western hemisphere.
Robert Gates made his first trip to Latin America as U.S. defense secretary, beginning his five-country tour in El Salvador. The secretary's itinerary included stops in Colombia, Peru, Chile, and Suriname to focus on Washington's security ties in the region. A recent editorial co-authored by COA's Eric Farnsworth examines trade policy as a way to boost U.S.-Latin American relations.
Creating open markets, improving development assistance, and securing reasonably priced energy supplies are the leading components of a U.S. strategy to engage the hemisphere. John Negroponte cautions that “questionable decision-making in some capitals threatens to spread poverty and inequality.”
In office for just over a month, Minister Araujo outlines Colombia’s foreign policy goals both in the Andean Region and globally. Held hostage by the Revolutionary Armed Forces of Colombia (FARC) until December 2006, Minister Araujo provides an inside look at prospects for peace.
On the heels of U.S. President George W. Bush’s return from Latin America, AS/COA brought together expert speakers and panelists to discuss the implications of his trip for hemispheric relations and the overall U.S.-Latin America agenda. They cautioned that regional growth and prosperity will hinge on sustained, positive commitment to the region.