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Central America is a region with great economic potential, but to improve productivity levels and achieve successful integration into the global economy, Central American countries must dramatically increase their investment in infrastructure. The isthmus could see further economic gain from investment in the power grid and the development of clean energy.
On December 1, the Latin America Initiative at Brookings and the Central American Bank for Economic Integration hosted a discussion on the opportunities open to Central America and the role of the public and private sector in the development of infrastructure and energy projects. Two panels of experts examined these issues, followed by a keynote address by José W. Fernández, assistant secretary for Economic, Energy and Business Affairs at the U.S. Department of State.
After each panel, speakers took audience questions.
Agenda
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December 1
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9:00 AM -- Introduction
Kevin Casas-Zamora Former Brookings Expert, Director, Programa Estado de Derecho, Diálogo InteramericanoPRPablo Rodas Chief Economist -
9:15 AM -- Panel 1: Opportunities and Challenges for Infrastructure in Central America
Kevin Casas-Zamora Former Brookings Expert, Director, Programa Estado de Derecho, Diálogo InteramericanoHBHugo Beteta Sub-regional DirectorKHKarla Hernández Regional Manager, Central American Electrical Interconnection SystemMLLMaria Lorena López Vice Minister of Public Works and Transportation -
10:45 AM -- Panel 2: The Energy Challenge for Central America
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12:15 PM -- Keynote Address
Kevin Casas-Zamora Former Brookings Expert, Director, Programa Estado de Derecho, Diálogo InteramericanoJWFJosé W. Fernández Partner, Gibson, Dunn & Crutcher LLP - Former Assistant Secretary of State for Economic, Energy and Business Affairs
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