CARTA:
Honorable Speaker of the House Mrs. Nancy Pelosi We the Colombian people believe that the FTA with the United States is a key policy for the future of our country. We believe that through trade with our most important commercial and political ally our nation will achieve sustainable economic growth while reducing poverty and generating new employment opportunities. It is true that not all the problems that our country faces have been solved, but it is also true that during the last five years our nation has achieved significant results that demonstrate our recovery: • Highest economic growth in more than 10 years. • Lowest unemployment rate in more than 50 years. • Lowest inflation rate in Colombian history. • Highest FDI levels in more than 20 years • Lowest Kidnapping rates in more than 20 years. • Lowest Homicide rates in 15 years. • More than 189 public entities reformed. • Highest hotel occupancy in more than 20 years. • Highest Education and Health coverage in Colombian history. All these achievements have occurred because as a nation we have regained confidence despite the existence of the worst threat that any society can suffer: Terrorism. Plan Colombia a bipartisan effort leaded by the United States has been crucial in this successful story. There is a lot to be done and we as a nation are aware of that. However we believe that with new employment opportunities and higher economic growth illegal crops, which provide the main source of income to terrorist organization, will not continue to be considered as an option by low-income families. The FTA between Colombia and the U.S represents a win win situation where both parties can achieve beneficial results for their people. As a Colombian I would like your support as Speaker of the House to promote the approval of the FTA. We strongly believe that Trade is a way that will lead us to a better and more competitive society. For us FTA is the way. Sincerely