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By ROD CHAPMAN, Brussels A package of measures designed to spur Central America's economic integration and help the region compete on the international marketplace attracted over $12 million in assistance pledges from a group of donors meeting in October in Brussels, Belgium.Participants at the Regional Consultative Group for Central America also agreed on a long-term strategy to reform the regional institutions that promote trade and subregional integration as a major step toward creating a unified economic area. The regional strategy includes drawing up common regulations, establishing a modern communications infrastructure and simplifying and strengthening the regional institutional framework. The proposals for funding were presented by top government officials of the isthmus' six countries to representatives of 37 donor countries and institutions gathered at the Brussels headquarters of the European Commission. Organized by the IDB, the meeting was chaired by Nohra Rey de Marulanda, manager of the Bank's Integration and Regional Programs Department. Speaking on behalf of the Central American Governments, Fernando García, Honduran minister of trade, industry and tourism, emphasized the importance of the new regional strategy in the fight against poverty, not only by fostering economic growth, but also by distributing its benefits equitably and with minimal negative environmental impact. While Central America works to strengthen its regional ties, García emphasized that the region's ultimate aim is to benefit from the opportunities offered by access to global markets. García noted that all of the projects presented to the donors met specific requirements: ownership by national or regional institutions, a regional impact, and regional or international executing units to ensure coordination among different projects. The IDB is a major supporter of Central America's integration efforts. Last March, the Bank approved a loan of $185 million to help improve and integrate the region's electricity system. Also, an IDB loan for $100 million will strengthen the ability of the Central American Bank for Economic Integration to gain access to international markets. |
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NEW FUNDING WILL - Consolidate markets in electricity and hydrocarbons - Build transportation infrastructure - Train the labor force and improve health - Strengthen regional institutions involved in market and
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