CAFTA

Regina Vargo, Assistant U.S. Trade Representative, Arrives in Guatemala

Guatemala, May 12, 2003

Regina K. Vargo, Assistant U.S. Trade Representative and lead U.S. negotiator for the U.S.-Central America Free Trade Agreement (US-CAFTA), arrived in Guatemala City today to take part in the fourth round of US-CAFTA negotiations.

Ms. Vargo issued the following statement upon her arrival in Guatemala:

"I am looking forward to the fourth round of US-CAFTA negotiations. We have made substantial progress so far in three previous negotiating rounds, which were very productive. I am hopeful that our negotiations this week will lead to significant advances as well.

"The United States remains committed to reaching this important agreement with our Central American neighbors. US-CAFTA will help to create the conditions for greater and more widespread prosperity in the region, which is a goal that all of our countries share.

"I would like to thank the Government of Guatemala for hosting this round of negotiations, as well as expressing my gratitude for the hospitality received from the Government and the private sector organizations during our stay in Guatemala."---

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