Welcoming Remarks

  Carlos Morales Troncoso

  Minister of Foreign Affairs of the Dominican Republic

The Dominican Republic and its authorities are deeply honored to host the 4th Ministerial Meeting of Pathways to Prosperity in the Americas , one more opportunity to strengthen bonds and join efforts towards the development of our countries.



"Pathways to Prosperity in the Americas " seeks to foster the sharing of experiences and exchange of views among countries in the Hemisphere about the best possible policies to benefit all our citizens. The initiative serves as a common platform for those countries in the region committed to the principles of democracy and open markets as tools to promote inclusive growth, prosperity and social justice. The Dominican Republic firmly believes in the guiding values of the initiative and understands that through it we can generate economic and social opportunities, for example by teaching small farmers and businesses, craftspeople, women, youth, minorities and vulnerable groups to compete more efficiently in world markets and take advantage of the benefits of international trade. We have undertaken the task with enthusiasm, constituting an interinstitutional group and a public-private alliance to help promote and publicize the importance of this initiative among the Dominican people. We have also launched an awareness campaign for the inclusion of observer countries as full members of the project and to encourage others to join.



We have worked closely with the U.S. State Department, member states and international organizations on the final documents to be adopted at the 4th Ministerial Meeting, with the aim of propelling Pathways to the highest political levels. Our desire is for Pathways to be a real, effective and lasting contribution to the comprehensive development of the region.  We propose the adoption in Santo Domingo of a Declaration which reflects the objectives of the Initiatives, its new structure, and a more pragmatic approach. We want to emphasize the vital role played by the international organizations which support Pathways, and the importance of their full support for the goals we set out, and in particular, their unstinting collaboration with the coordinators of the four pillars.



On behalf of our President Dr. Leonel Fernández Reyna, and myself, I would like to convey our gratitude for the warmth and support you have bestowed upon us. Your presence motivates us and we would like to think that all of you, Ministers and delegates, will return to your countries with a fond memory of our people, our land and our cultural heritage. But, above all, with the conviction that we Dominicans are at the forefront of every effort to promote the well-being of our Continent and its people.