PERU TODAY

Heads of State and Government from Latin America, the Caribbean and the European Union will meet in Lima to discuss common concerns

This month heads of state and government, foreign ministers and high level representatives from an unprecedented 60 countries in Latin America, the Caribbean and Europe gather in Lima, Peru, for the fifth Summit between both regions since 1999.

Both regions have recognized the importance of building upon the well established dialogue between them. Amongst the notable figures that will be present are the German Chancellor Angela Merkel, Spanish Prime Minister José Luis Rodríguez Zapatero, French Primer Minister François Fillon, President of Brazil Lula Da Silva, Mexico's President Felipe Calderon and European Commission President José Manuel Barroso. The United Kingdom is expected to be represented by Baroness Ashton of Upholland, Leader of the House of Lords and Lord President of the Council.

The subjects to be discussed on this occasion are of global relevance and urgency and are centred on two main themes: 'Poverty, inequality and inclusion' and 'Sustainable Development: the environment, climate change and energy', amongst other issues. The persistence of the former as the deadline to reach the Millenium Development Goals in 2015 approaches and the looming prospects for the latter in this century make them the
centrepiece of political dialogue at the highest level. The Summit will provide an opportunity to address these issues in an open and straightforward atmosphere.

Although agreement between numerous delegates is a complex matter, there is already optimism that the Summit will lead to concrete arrangements and conclusive measures. At a panel discussion organised by the Peruvian Embassy and Canning House on 22nd April (see Latest Activities), the EU's Chief Negotiator of the final declaration, Marko Osolnik, noted there had been substantial progress and was optimistic regarding the outcome of the Lima Summit.

Peruvian Ambassador Ricardo Luna noted the willingness evident on both sides: 'Our active association with the EU is a vital component of our strategy and we have a shared commitment to address effectively these areas of global concern. The forthcoming LAC-EU Summit will therefore represent a significant occasion to move forward on them'.

The meeting among heads of State and Government, to take place on 16 May, will follow that of the Foreign ministers on 15 May and meetings between high level officials the two previous days. Previous summits took place in Vienna (2006), Guadalajara (2004), Madrid (2002), Rio (1999).

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