EXECUTIVE SUMMARY - two pages maximum - (see open invitation)

Our institution fully agrees with the objective of guaranteeing sustainable development and conserving the environment for future generations, which is one of the main objectives of the FTAA and is set out in the Miami Declaration of Principles.

However, we believe that it should be mentioned that trade liberalization in the Americas has consequences that go well beyond the purely commercial and impact on the environmental and social areas.

We are aware that various sectors have legitimate concerns if the FTAA investment rules follow the NAFTA deregulation path. They may well find themselves in a position opposing the promotion of sustainable development.

That is why it is urgent that the investment regulations resulting from the FTAA negotiations guarantee that the multinational corporations follow strict environmental standards in their operations, in other words the FTAA should promote responsible environmental investments.

Sustainable development attempts to balance the needs and aspirations of the people with natural eco-system limits. Citizens must be well informed and have extensive participation for environmental management to be successful in reaching that goal.

Admittedly the FTAA Process, to date, has not had a sufficient dissemination of its plans, scope and consequences. This will require a major effort to inform the people of the countries involved on these matters.