What happens if it doesn win approval?
I have the impression that CAFTA will pass. I believe the [Bush] Administration has put all of its political strength and maneuvering ability into winning passage of this project that is so important not only for the U.S. but also for Central America. Central America buys [nearly] $16 billion in goods from the U.S. each year. That makes our region one of the most important trade partners for the U.S. Also, national security is involved in CAFTA: Having a stable region with friends and allies who are economically stable will generate local jobs and will prevent so many people from migrating [illegally] to the U.S. Q: Why is CAFTA important for Central America? A: First, because it will send a good signal from our ally, the U.S. Second, it will make permanent all of the [zero-tariff] provisions that [the U.S.] has unilaterally given us through the Caribbean Basin Initiative. Third, it will make Central America interesting for investors, because of its good labor force and infrastructure.
