The U.S. Trade Representative has sent Costa Rica a clear message: The United States will not consider negotiating a new trade agreement if Costa Rica votes down the Central American Free-Trade Agreement with the United States (CAFTA) in Sunday's referendum.
“It is difficult to imagine any U.S. administration renegotiating the current agreement or negotiating a new trade agreement with Costa Rica if this agreement is rejected,” said U.S. Trade Representative Susan Schwab. “The opportunity for Costa Rica to enjoy the benefits of regional free trade is now.”
Schwab's comments do not officially close the door to a trade agreement, however, since the decision of whether or not to negotiate could be in the hands of a Democratic presidential administration after the 2008 U.S. election.
Costa Ricans around the country will vote Sunday in the country's first referendum, which just happens to be on possibly the most controversial topic in recent history. If at least 40% of eligible voters turn out, the results will be binding.
Campaigns for both the “yes” and “no” side have heated up this week as each pulls out its final stops to win over undecided voters.
See tomorrow's print or electronic edition of The Tico Times for more details on Costa Rica's options should it vote down CAFTA, and stay tuned to the online Daily News page for coverage of election results. |
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