MONTEVIDEO, August 25, 2007.- The relations between Cuba and the Latin American Integration Association (ALADI) were highlighted by permanent Ambassador of the island to that institution, Mariela Ruiz. "Being an ALADI member has allowed us to improve the preferential access of our exports to regional markets. It has also helped us to develop a climate of trust and understanding in our trade relations with other member countries," the Cuban diplomat said. Ruiz noted that within the association, Cuba has boosted the implementation of strategies aimed at increasing cooperation and productivity, and to include the participation of labor and managerial sectors in the process of integration. The ambassador noted that Cuba will be celebrating Saturday the eighth anniversary of its entry into ALADI, though Cuba had already signed some preferential agreements with some of the member nations in 1984. Ruiz echoed the island's support for the special treatment offered to less developed countries and to activities aimed at eradicating the economic imbalance existing between those nations and the other members. She also stressed Cuba's efforts to reach Latin American integration despite the failed attempts carried out by successive U.S. administrations to isolate the island. The Cuban official criticized the Free Trade Area for the Americas agreement launched by Washington and called for the creation of a regional market based not only on the elimination of duties but on the development of the peoples. (Cubaminrex-RHC)
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