Number: RL34470
Title: The U.S.-Colombia Free Trade Agreement: Economic and Political Implications
Authors: M. Angeles Villarreal, Foreign Affairs, Defense, and Trade Division 
Abstract: Numerous Members of Congress oppose the CFTA because of concerns about the violence against labor union activists in Colombia. The Bush Administration believes that Colombia has made significant advances to combat violence and instability and views the pending trade agreement as a national security issue in that it would strengthen a key democratic ally in South America. For Colombia, a free trade agreement with the United States is part of the overall economic development strategy of Colombian President Alvaro Uribe's Administration. President Uribe has made a trade agreement with the United States a key element in his vision to promote economic growth in Colombia and to help bring more economic stability in the country. In his response to U.S. congressional concerns, President Uribe has stated on several occasions that he would make every effort to ensure that these concerns were addressed and that the situation in Colombia had improved substantially under his administration. Some Members of Congress have stated they would like to see evidence of progress in this area before supporting the agreement.
Pages: 29
Date: November 20, 2008