Andina

FTAs signed by U.S. are mutually beneficial and this will continue, says AS WHA

Photo: ANDINA/Norman Córdova

Photo: ANDINA/Norman Córdova

16:47 | Lima, Nov. 15.

U.S. Assistant Secretary of State for Western Hemisphere Affairs, Brian A. Nichols, on Friday stated that the Free Trade Agreements (FTAs) signed by the United States with various nations in the continent, including Peru, are mutually beneficial, and that principle will be upheld under the future administration of President Donald Trump.

In remarks to RPP Noticias, Nichols emphasized that, just as there is a trade agreement with Peru, similar agreements are maintained with Mexico, Canada, Colombia, and Chile.

He added that there is no reason for concern over potential changes, though he did not rule out the possibility of refining these agreements.

"All of these (treaties) are mutually beneficial, and I believe that upon review, this will hold true, so I am not concerned about that. I think we should continue refining aspects, for instance, protections for workers, environmental safeguards, and assessing whether the treaties are fulfilling their intended purpose; but in my view, they are mutually beneficial," he stated.

Nichols -who served as the U.S. Ambassador to Peru between 2014 and 2017- is currently in Lima as part of President Joe Biden's delegation, one of the world leaders attending APEC Leaders' Week currently underway in Lima.

U.S. Investment

When asked about the presence of Chinese investments in Latin America, including the Chancay Port in Peru, the diplomat emphasized that there is ongoing bilateral cooperation between Peru and the United States.

Ambassador Nichols pointed to the recent provision of helicopters to the Peruvian National Police so as to combat crime, and expressed optimism that U.S. investments will increase in the coming years.

"We aim to show that we are presenting the best offer to be trading partners with Peru," he stated, emphasizing that it is up to the Peruvian government to maintain a favorable environment for investment.

Nichols also noted that the White House is closely monitoring the political environment in Peru.

"The situation in Peru is something we are following closely, and we hope that Peru continues to grow while strengthening its democratic institutions. It is essential that there is respect for human rights and democracy in Peru for the future and well-being of all Peruvians," he affirmed.

(END) DOP/JCC/JCR/MAT/MVB

Published: 11/15/2024