US and Peru Boost Bilateral Relations

Applaud Peru’s government for establishing the new Ministry of Development and Social Inclusion, Secretary of State Hillary Rodham Clinton today announced that both countries the United States and Peru work together on many shared challenges and priorities.

In her remarks after her meeting with Peruvian President Ollanta Humala in Peru’s capital of Lima, Secretary Clinton says US and Peru are working together to promote citizen security and to work against the drug traffickers.

“We are working to support you in your ongoing efforts against the terrorists who have for too long brought violence to too many people throughout Peru.” -Ms. Clinton

Both countries are working to protect Peru’s magnificent environment and cultural treasures.

In addition, both countries are working to support Peru’s eforts efforts to spur broad-based development that is as important in the cities as it is in the rural areas.

According to Ms. Clinton, Peru and the United States are committed to preserving the Amazon Basin as well.

Both countries are jointly developing a new regional initiative to maintain strong economic growth while also preventing deforestation and reducing carbon emissions, Ms. Clinton said.

Both countries believe it’s important to preserve their resources for future generations and to help more people move from poverty to self-sufficiency; to help families feel safe in their communities and children have the chance to get a good education; to improve all services, such as health care, and to benefit everyone from strong, inclusive democratic institutions that respect human rights and freedom of expression.

“Because of Peru’s strong economic growth and your commitment to social inclusion, more people around the world are paying attention to what is happening right here in your country.” -Ms. Clinton

Ms. Clinton adds that the United States will be committed to building our partnership and friendship not only between their governments, but between their people.

Ms. Clinton’s visit to Lima will also include her participation in a conference as both countries discuss ways to tap the potential of women and further social inclusion and economic progress here in Peru.

Peru enjoys strong and cooperative relations with the United States.

In December 2005, the United States and Peru have concluded work on a bilateral free-trade agreement.

The agreement will eliminate tariffs and other barriers to goods and services and thus expand trade between the United States and Peru.

The pact was considered as a very strong agreement for both countries. There’s a very strong agricultural benefits package” that “covers a wide array of products.

In addition, the agreement contains a very strong textiles/apparel package.