MEDIA REACTION ON CAFTA, APRIL 6, 2005

UNCLAS TEGUCIGALPA 000757

SIPDIS

DEPT. FOR WHA/PD; IIP/G/WHA DIPASQUALE; AND IIP/T/ES
DEPT. FOR EB/TPP DCLUNE, DRL/IL, WHA/EPSC AND WHA/CEN
DEPT. PASS USTR
DOL FOR ILAB

E.O. 12958: N/A
TAGS: OIIP KPAO ETRD ELAB HO USTR
SUBJECT: MEDIA REACTION ON CAFTA, APRIL 6, 2005



1. Editorial in San Pedro Sula-based liberal daily "Tiempo" on
4/6, titled "CAFTA CA-USA-DR." "In Central America, the
ratification of CAFTA by the region's congresses seems to be
certain, despite the tenacious opposition of some popular
sectors, especially labor unions. El Salvador, Honduras and
Guatemala have already ratified it, but Costa Rica, - where
there's a strong opposition to it, Nicaragua, and the Dominican
Republic haven't, although the last two countries don't appear to
have much problem in doing so."

"The most important country in this process is the U.S., whose
Congress doesn't demonstrate clear support for CAFTA, although
George W. Bush, who reportedly wants Congress to ratify it this
year, is a strong CAFTA supporter."

"For that reason, the lobbying process, carried out by the
Central American presidents and other governmental officials in
Washington is crucial, because ratification by the most important
party to this agreement is still pending, and ratification by the
U.S. is simply essential."

"Recently, the Ministers of Labor in the region have done their
share of the work, convincing the Americans of their commitment
to implement labor laws which will protect the rights and needs
of the Central American workers."

Palmer