Infrastructure

At the AS/COA book launch for Can America Compete?, a panel including the publication's contributions and co-editor debated whether Latin America's growth is sustainable and will allow the region to to break the cyclical boom and bust pattern that has historically characterized its economy.

Addressing attendees at the COA's Washington Conference of the Americas, U.S. Education Secretary Margaret Spellings discussed the importance of educational exchange between the United States and the rest of the Western Hemisphere, saying that the more governments and higher education institutions work together to foster exchange, “the better prepared we will all be to respond to the challenges of our changing world.”

With a focus on North American collaboration, Canada’s Minister of Industry Jim Prentice highlighted opportunities to improve cross-border trade flows, boost infrastructure, and enhance energy security during his remarks at COA's Washington Conference.

At the Miami launch of the latest issue of Americas Quarterly, a panel moderated by Miami Herald columnist Andrés Oppenheimer examined Latin American social mobility and hemispheric trade policy, as well as Cuba’s economic outlook following Raúl Castro’s accession.

The North American Competitiveness Council provided a report on April 22 at the North American Leaders Summit in New Orleans. The report argues that government and business leaders must work harder to broaden public understanding of the benefits that flow from liberalized trade and investment within North America.

New figures show that, while Latin America experiences better aviation safety, concerns persist. However, commercial demand in the region ranks among the world's highest as airlines operating in Latin America modernize and expand their fleets.

At a COA book launch, panelists shared scientific, political, and historical insights into the Panama Canal’s construction. Matthew Parker, author of Panama Fever: The Epic Story of One of the Greatest Human Achievements of All Time provided context for the discussion through his historical overview beginning with the colonial era.