EU and Central America pursue negotiations for an Association Agreement; €15 million EC assistance package for regional integration announced

The European Commission and Central America will meet in Brussels from 26 to 30 January 2009 for the sixth round of negotiations leading to an Association Agreement between the two regions. In addition, the Commission is announcing a €15 million aid package to support the strengthening of regional institutions in Central America and the participation of civil society in the process. Both parties intend to conclude this year a comprehensive agreement, which will, among other things, create a free trade area between the EU and Central America. The third EU-Central America Private Sector Forum, co-organised by EUROCHAMBERS, FECAEXCA/CECA and CENCIT, will take place on the morning of 27 January 2009 and will allow for an exchange between private sector representatives from the two regions.