Coral Gables, Florida — In a landmark event aimed at strengthening international cooperation, leaders and experts from Latin America, the U.S., and the Asia-Pacific region gathered in Coral Gables, Florida, to participate in the forum “Perspectives for Greater Economic and Cultural Engagements: Latin America—U.S.—Asia-Pacific Region.” Organized by the Latin American and Caribbean Presidential Mission, Fundación Esquipulas, Global Peace Foundation, Fundación para el Ecodesarrollo y la Conservación, Instituto de Desarrollo del Pensamiento Patria Soñada, Chaco Vivo, World Affairs Council Miami, and the Conservative Coalition for Climate Solutions, the event aimed to explore and expand collaboration opportunities between these dynamic regions.
The event was opened by Marcos Regalado, a member of the Board of Directors of the Latin American Presidential Mission, who emphasized the importance of the participation of former presidents and leaders in discussions on economic freedom and strategic green cooperation.
During the inaugural speech, Thomas Field, President of the Latin American Presidential Mission and Representative of the Global Peace Foundation in Latin America, reflected on the evolution of the forum and its impact on strengthening transcontinental ties.
One of the significant moments was the keynote address by former Guatemalan President Vinicio Cerezo, who is also a founding member of the Latin American Presidential Mission. In his speech, he advocated for greater economic and cultural commitment, highlighting Latin America’s strategic position on the global stage and the importance of collaboration for sustainable and prosperous development.
Innovation and Sustainability at the Heart of the Debate: Two Panels to Build Bridges between Latin America, the United States, and the Asia-Pacific
These panels reflected the importance of international cooperation and strategic alliances to address global economic and environmental challenges, strengthening ties, and promoting more sustainable and equitable development among the involved regions.
Panel I: Economic Freedom Model in the Asia-Pacific Region
Panel I, moderated by Anthony Kim, highlighted the importance of Taiwan as a model of democracy and economic freedom, crucial for strengthening cooperation and sustainable economic development among participating nations.
Jorge “Tuto” Quiroga, former President of Bolivia and member of the Latin American Presidential Mission, emphasized the need to strengthen democratic institutions in Latin America to face challenges such as migration and crime, leveraging strategic alliances with the Asia-Pacific region.
Another significant participant was Gustavo Leite, Senator of Paraguay, who illustrated how collaboration in education and technology with Taiwan has driven Paraguay’s economic growth.
For his part, Evan Ellis provided a geopolitical vision discussing Taiwan’s strategic presence in Latin America as an opportunity to counter China’s influence.
Finally, Federico Sosa highlighted the crucial role of the private sector in creating robust economic ties, and advocating for innovative approaches to attract investments.
This panel demonstrated that economic freedom and democracy are fundamental to sustainable development and that strategic alliances between the Americas and Asia-Pacific can drive economic growth and regional stability.
Before Panel II, a message from Charles C.Y. Chou drew the attention of the attendees. He discussed Taiwan’s commitment to global sustainability, highlighting its role as a leader in environmental cooperation.
Margaret Sanchez, member of the Board of Directors of the Latin American Presidential Mission, presented Panel II. In her message, she highlighted how transcontinental collaboration accelerates the development of green technologies and addresses climate challenges.
Panel II: Strategic Geopolitical Green Cooperation
In Panel II, Olinda Salguero, President of Fundación Esquipulas and Representative for Central America of the Global Peace Foundation, articulated the relevance of strategic alliances in promoting green initiatives for sustainable growth.
In this panel, the message from former President of Ecuador, Jamil Mahuad, and member of the Presidential Mission, focused on his experience in biodiversity conservation in Ecuador, highlighting the need for innovative solutions that respect biodiversity and promote balanced development.
Vince Lago, Mayor of Coral Gables, Florida, demonstrated how local green policies can improve the environment and increase the economic value of communities.
Marco Cerezo, Director of Fundaeco, highlighted the co-benefits of these initiatives, such as providing scholarships for rural girls and protecting endangered species, illustrating how market-based mechanisms can effectively address environmental challenges.
For Kiantar Betancourt, president of Atenil S.A. in Paraguay, the livestock industry has been a primary driver of deforestation in the region, and he explained how his company has leveraged carbon credits to promote sustainable land use. He emphasized the importance of creating economic opportunities that align with environmental conservation.
The dialogue in this panel underscored that strategic and geopolitical cooperation on environmental issues is essential not only for environmental conservation but also for fostering economic development that is sustainable and beneficial for all parties involved.
This event overall not only underscored the importance of international cooperation in times of global challenges but also reaffirmed the commitment of leaders to foster a more prosperous and sustainable future. The active participation of prominent figures and experts provided a valuable space for dialogue and joint action, promising a lasting impact on economic and cultural relations between the Americas and the Asia-Pacific region.
WATCH THE FULL FORUM HERE:
Panel I: Economic Freedom Model in the Asia-Pacific Region
Panel II: Strategic Geopolitical Green Cooperation
