COA's Director of Government Relations Brian Wanko writes that Congress has the opportunity to make a lasting impact on Latin America's prosperity and development by supporting free-trade agreements with Panama, Peru, and Colombia.

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.

Congress has begun consideration of the U.S.-Peru Trade Promotion Agreement, and a decision on its approval is expected by the end of October. A new congressional update takes a look at action on the deal, possibilities for similar agreements with Panama and Colombia, and a U.S. proposal for a new hemispheric aid initiative.

With former President Alberto Fujimori returning to Peru to stand trial for corruption and human rights abuses, AS/COA looks at his impending trial. A new update also examines the country’s overall economic performance, including potential ramifications of discontent in the mining industry.

The House Ways and Means Committee voted in support of the U.S.-Peru Trade Agreement this week. Congressional approval is expected in October with the deal viewed as a potential model for other bilateral pacts. COA testimony notes the agreement's passage provides an opportunity to advance strategic policy goals and promote U.S. economic, labor, and environmental interests.

In testimony to the U.S. Senate Committee on Finance, COA Vice President Eric Farnsworth notes that passage of the U.S.-Peru Trade Promotion Agreement is a rare opportunity to advance fundamental strategic policy interests while promoting U.S. economic, labor, and environmental interests.

Can Peru maintain its robust economic growth? Minister Carranza Ugarte discusses future economic scenarios along with the importance of investment in social development and passage of the U.S.-Peru Trade Promotion Agreement.