MONDAY, APRIL 23, 2007  

Corporate Program         

THIS PROGRAM HAS BEEN CANCELLED.

Economic Perspectives on Chile in the Framework of Regional Development

with

His Excellency Alejandro Ferreiro, Minister of the Economy of the Republic of Chile

During the past two decades, the globalization of the Chilean economy has often been cited as a successful example of openness, liberalization, and export development.  Today, Chile serves as a gateway to Latin America because of its status as a vibrant democracy, as well as a regional economic leader.  Chile has consolidated its position as an attractive international partner by building an extensive network of trade-liberalizing agreements throughout the world and by spearheading the negotiations of the Free Trade Area of the Americas (FTAA) agreement.  Today, Chile’s diversified network of trade relationships accounts for close to $39 billion in trade.  As the most industrialized country in Latin America, Chile has emerged as the foundation for increasing regional development. The signing of the 2004 U.S.-Chile Free Trade Agreement served as the cornerstone for rapid economic development and bilateral trade has dramatically expanded, generating close to $14.8 billion in 2006.  The strategic partnership between U.S. and Chile continues to flourish in areas outside of economics, including multilateral diplomacy, enforcement of intellectual property rights, and regional security.  The negotiation and implementation of these agreements suggest that greater openness to trade and regional integration are effective tools for achieving higher levels of development in the region.

Alejandro Ferreiro became the Minister of the Economy of the Republic of Chile on July 14, 2006.  Under his stewardship, the Ministry is responsible for implementing and overseeing programs which create sustainable and meaningful economic growth and commerce for the country.  Prior to his appointment, he was Superintendent of Insurance from 2003 to 2006.  From 1996 to 2000, he served as the Superintendent of ISAPREs (Chile’s private health insurance companies), and then was Superintendent of AFPs (Chile’s private pension fund companies) from 2000 to 2003.  From 1994 to 1996, he served as Executive Secretary to the National Public Ethics and Government Advisory National Commission.  He also worked as an advisor in the Presidency Ministry from 1990 to 1994.

The Chicago Club, 3rd Floor – Daniel Burnham Room
81 East Van Buren Street
Chicago, IL 60605

11:45 a.m. – Registration and Networking
12:00 noon – Luncheon
2:00 p.m. – Adjournment

Members:  $50
Cosponsor members:  $50
Nonmembers:  $65