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OPA News Release: [04/05/2005]
Contact Name:
Mike Biddle Dirk Fillpot
Phone Number: 202-693-4676 or x5052
Release Number: 05-593-NAT
U.S. Labor Secretary Meets with Central America and
Dominican Republic Ministers to Discuss Progress in Promoting Worker
Rights
WASHINGTON—U.S. Secretary of Labor Elaine L. Chao met today
with labor and trade ministers of Central America and the Dominican Republic
who are in Washington to issue a White Paper highlighting the progress these
countries have made toward promoting worker rights in their regions and describing
the challenges ahead. The Central American Free Trade Agreement was negotiated
last year and now includes the Dominican Republic (CAFTA-DR).
“These representatives of Central America and the Dominican Republic have
come to Washington to share their stories of hope and commitment to improving
the labor situation in their countries,” said Chao. “I appreciate this opportunity
to meet with my Central American counterparts to
discuss the potential mutual benefits of implementing a free trade agreement,
including economic growth and job creation.”
CAFTA-DR is a proposed agreement between the United States and the five
countries of Central America (Costa Rica, El Salvador, Guatemala, Honduras
and Nicaragua) and the Dominican Republic. The agreement promotes free
trade and expands regional opportunities for workers, manufacturers, consumers,
farmers and services providers in the participating countries.
Congress is expected to begin consideration of CAFTA-DR this month.
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