Non-reimbursable technical cooperation for Bolivia

(La Paz, September 21, 2007).- CAF President & CEO Enrique García and Bolivian President Evo Morales signed in Santa Cruz a non-reimbursable technical cooperation agreement whose funds will be used for various projects including market promotion and legal and institutional reform, building Bolivian-Chilean mutual confidence, and programs to assistance victims of frosts and fires.

The Corporation will grant non-reimbursable funds to the Ministry of Production and Microenterprises, and the Companies Superintendency to improve the business environment of these bodies, and promote markets; as well as stimulating reform of the legal framework.

Funds will also be granted for deepening activities to build mutual confidence between Bolivia and Chile through a program of workshops for communicators and public-opinion makers from Chile and Bolivia, and meetings of academics and representatives of leading universities in Chile. The financing will be administered by the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Religion.

CAF also granted financing to cover the basic needs of 1,250 families most affected by frosts and fires. The assistance is available for purchase and delivery of blankets, mats, sleeping bags, woolen balaclavas and gloves; along with fire fighting and prevention equipment. This program will be executed by the Bolivian Defense Ministry.