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This is an archived USAID document retained on this web site as a matter of public record.
Remarks by Carl H. Leonard,
The World Bank
Deputy Assistant Administrator
Bureau for Latin America and the Caribbean
Bolivia Consultative Group
Paris, France
October 9, 2000
Thank you Mr. Chairman for your candid description of what has transpired in Bolivia over these past few weeks. Let me take this opportunity to reiterate the United States Government's support for Bolivia's efforts to promote democracy and prosperity in Bolivia.
Over the past 15 years, Bolivia has made steady progress in consolidating democracy, opening its economy, and attacking the scourge of drug trafficking. We have witnessed remarkable progress in reducing illicit coca cultivation to a level that would have been inconceivable just a few years ago. Over the last few weeks, some groups have attempted to turn back the clock, placing in jeopardy these extraordinary achievements. I was pleased to hear you say that Bolivia will continue to seek a peaceful resolution of the crisis through dialogue, while at the same time holding firm to the goal of completely eradicating illegal coca cultivation.
Given the recent crisis, we see the Bolivian Poverty Reduction Strategy as a unique opportunity to incorporate the recommendations and proposals of civil society that resulted from the National Dialogue. The strategy will help Bolivia focus on the underlying issues that have contributed to the crisis. In finding solutions to poverty, it is imperative that Bolivia incorporates all segments of society, especially the urban and rural poor, women and indigenous groups. Views such as those expressed so eloquently by Elsa Guevara need to be heard and incorporated.
Bolivia's commitment to eradicate illegal coca and to continue to pursue the objectives of its Dignity Plan deserve our full support. The significant achievements of Bolivia in eradication of illegal coca demonstrate the common vision that Bolivia shares with the rest of the world on the issue of drug production and trafficking.
The tasks ahead are not easy. Continued efforts to achieve sustainable development, preserve the environment and attack the roots of poverty are still remaining challenges. Consolidating alternative development, as well as continued support for popular participation and the full implementation of judicial reforms, are important complementary elements requiring priority attention. We are confident that the commitment of the Government of Bolivia to attach the roots of poverty, coupled with the strong support of the donor community, will ensure successful achievement of Bolivia's development goals.
The United States Government plans to continue substantial assistance programs for Bolivia. Our development assistance will target programs that enhance opportunities and raise the incomes of the poor, broaden civil participation and improve the administration of justice, expand the coverage and quality of health services, manage the natural resources sustainably, and provide coca farmers with alternative legal sources of income. In establishing our assistance program, we will be guided by how Bolivia's Poverty Reduction Strategy appropriately incorporates the views and recommendations of the National Dialogue, including the objectives and targets of the Dignity Plan.
In conclusion, we are pleased to join other donors in reaffirming our support of a strengthened development partnership with Bolivia. We look forward to continuing this dialogue in Bolivia as part of an ongoing consultative group process.
This is an archived USAID document retained on this web site as a matter of public record.
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Last Updated on: July 12, 2001 |
