President Martin Vizcarra has affirmed the 50th anniversary of the signing of the Cartagena Agreement is an opportunity to renew the
Andean Community's (CAN) commitment to regional integration in order to create tangible benefits and improve citizens' quality of life.
On the occasion, Vizcarra was joined by his counterparts Evo Morales (Bolivia), Ivan Duque (Colombia), and Lenin Moreno (Ecuador).
"Together we fought for Independence, together we built this Community, and together we will continue moving forward towards our (independence) bicentennials," he expressed.
Likewise, other accomplishments include
establishing a free trade zone, which enables the movement of goods and merchandise without tariffs, increasing the intra-community trade potential, fighting together against organized crime, and implementing border integration areas.
In this sense, President Vizcarra indicated this progress shows CAN and its solid institutionalism have been up to the challenge, adding he is convinced that "today, more than ever, it is necessary to prioritize the social and human aspect of this integration process."
"This Community will be interconnected in its energetic and communication networks, and will ensure the free movement of its citizens, who will be able to study, work, and access health and social security services in any of our countries, with better standards in health and educational services for the Andean population," he stated.
Peru's top official handed over the pro-tempore presidency to Bolivian President Evo Morales, wishing him success as the leader of this bloc, with the purpose of continuing to
accomplish the objectives set 50 years ago.
As is known, Peru assumed the presidency of the Andean Community in 2018.
(END) NDP/DTK/MVB
Published: 5/27/2019