CAF reaffirms its support for MERCOSUR at the LXIV Summit of Heads of State and Associated States
July 08, 2024
The Corporate Vice President of Strategic Programming, Christian Asinelli, participated in the Summit reaffirming the institution's commitment to regional integration, sustainable development and the transformation of CAF into the Green Bank of Latin America and the Caribbean. During his speech, he highlighted CAF's continued support in key areas such as physical, digital and energy integration, as well as in the economic empowerment of priority groups.
The Corporate Vice President of Strategic Programming of CAF - development bank of Latin America and the Caribbean, Christian Asinelli, participated in the LXIV Ordinary Meeting of the Common Market Council and Summit of Heads of State of MERCOSUR and Associated States, held in Asunción, Paraguay .
During his speech, Asinelli highlighted CAF's historical commitment to supporting the regional and international integration processes of MERCOSUR, as well as the adoption of common trade policies and the coordination of positions vis-à-vis other blocs and international forums.
We have the political will and institutional reason to contribute to regional integration
Christian Asinelli
"We have the political will and institutional reason to contribute to regional integration," Asinelli stated. "We see many future opportunities in this field and we hope to continue collaborating with MERCOSUR in all the new opportunities and challenges that arise."
The CAF representative highlighted the institution's support in key areas such as sustainable growth, border integration, climate action and the promotion of shared cultural values between Argentina, Brazil, Paraguay, Uruguay, and the Associated States.
Asinelli emphasized CAF's collaboration on strategic issues such as:
- Physical, digital and energy integration
- Expansion of commercial links with new external partners
- Economic empowerment and autonomy of women, youth and other groups
In addition, he highlighted CAF's support for various initiatives during the Pro Tempore Presidency of Paraguay, including seminars on integration, scientific diplomacy meetings and business forums.
The CAF delegation was also made up of Jorge Srur, Southern Regional Manager, and Ana Baiardi, Gender, Inclusion and Diversity Manager.
The event included the participation of Presidents Luiz Inácio Lula da Silva of Brazil, Luis Arce of Bolivia, Luis Lacalle Pou of Uruguay, and the special participation of President José Raúl Mulino of Panama.
During the Summit, the formal transfer ceremony of the current Pro Tempore Presidency to the Eastern Republic of Uruguay was held, marking the beginning of a new stage of the regional bloc.
CAF reaffirmed its commitment to continue supporting MERCOSUR, contributing to regional integration and the sustainable growth of its member countries.