Ambassador Remarks for CAFTA Reception
March 2, 2006

Good evening. I extend a very warm welcome to all of you on this very special night. 

I am delighted that you are here to celebrate the entry into force, yesterday, of the U.S.-Central America Free Trade Agreement between El Salvador and the United States.   

CAFTA is the very real embodiment of a vision of free trade and economic integration, prosperity and democratic development.    It is a major step forward for El Salvador and an important step forward in the trading relationship between our countries. 

One can lose track of the magnitude of this achievement considering the many steps in the long process that has brought us here; after all, y esterday was a day we have been working toward for over four years.  It would not have happened without El Salvador’s leadership from the beginning .  All of you played an essential role in making CAFTA happen.    

I salute you all of you present here – and those colleagues who could not join us - for your vision and dedication .   Together we have accomplished something all of us can be truly proud of. 

Congratulations!