12:11 | Lima, Jul. 28 (ANDINA).
As the Andean nation moves towards the end of its second century of independence, Peruvian President Alan Garcia announced today, July 28, that his government will take further decentralization measures to turn Peru into a first world country by 2021.
In his address for Peru’s independence day, Garcia said "the decentralization reforms the State since it allows regional and local governments to undertake works, prioritize investments and manage social services."
According to the head of state, these governments have experienced delays and problems; however, "we must conduct deeper reforms, that is our faith."
The Peruvian leader arrived at the Congress venue around 11:00 (16:00 GMT) and was welcomed by a seven-member Congress Committee.
Amid warm applauses upon his arrival to the Parliament, President Garcia took the time to greet all Congress members from the different political parties such as APRA, Unidad Nacional (National Unity), Unión por el Perú (Union for Peru), Partido Nacionalista (Nationalist Party) among others.
Then all attendees sang the national anthem of Peru.
At 9:00, President Garcia participated in the Te Deum ceremony, today’s first event marking the 188th anniversary of Peru’s independence at Lima’s Cathedral.
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Published: 7/28/2009