George W. Bush

“ The love of freedom has deep roots in the Pan American community. Not long after the United States won independence from Britain, patriots throughout the Americas were inspired to take their own stand. Today, there are more than 30 democratic countries in the region, and through the Organization of American States, leaders in the Western Hemisphere have an opportunity to discuss shared goals, promote prosperity, and strengthen democratic governance and institutions. ”

“ One of the surest ways to make opportunity real for all our citizens is through free and fair trade. In August 2005, I signed legislation to implement the Dominican Republic-Central America-United States Free Trade Agreement (CAFTA-DR) . ”

“ Our investment and trade through the CAFTA- DR will help build a better life for our citizens, and by reducing trade barriers, we can make our region more competitive in the global economy. Strong economic ties with democracies in our hemisphere foster stability and security and help lay the foundation for peace for generations to come. ”