Santos and Obama Acknowledged the Pending Topics of the Summit, Including the FTA

Presidents, of Colombia, Juan Manuel Santos, and U.S., Barack Obama

At a conference after their meeting at the end of the VI Summit of the Americas, the presidents of Colombia, Juan Manuel Santos, and United States, Barack Obama, endorsed the conclusions of the event in Cartagena about Cuba and the Malvinas, and reaffirmed the alliance of the two countries on trade issues.

“Our countries have gone from being good friends and partners to become true allies,” said Santos, “After a lot of effort and hard work together, we can now announce that, in May 15, within a month, the FTA will be effective in practical terms with the U.S., and this will be reflected in millions of jobs for United States and Colombia”, he added.

Obama also welcomed the Free Trade Agreement, and said they have made significant progress in labor rights. “This agreement becomes a big win for both countries, and will create U.S. jobs and increase U.S. exports.”

In another bilateral issue, Santos confirmed that from this moment the validity of U.S. visas granted to Colombians will be for a 10-years period.

Juan Manuel Santos at the VI Summit

Referring to the lack of consensus at the summit about the presence of Cuba, Obama said: “Since I became president I have made changes in policies on Cuba and the Organization of American States (OAS). We have pointed the way towards Cuba to participate in these meetings. But Cuba has not made the transition to democracy and respect for fundamental rights. When it does, we will welcome this moment of freedom, in which Cubans can choose their leaders and participate in the global economy. “

On the question of the Malvinas, Obama pointed the U.S. neutrality. “We will remain neutral. We have excellent relations with Argentina and the UK. They have to keep talking.”

Taking up one of the topics discussed at the summit, Obama said it is entirely appropriate to retake the issue of approach against drug trafficking.

Barack Obama at the Summit

“We have to see what we are doing to end violence and stop drug traffickers. We had an open dialogue. I do not believe in drug legalization but it is convenient seeing if there are steps worth taking. (ARL)