Costa Rica Govt Wants FTA - Prensa Latina: "San Jose, May 19 (Prensa Latina) Despite the opposition of numerous national organizations, Costa Rican Foreign Trade Minister Marco Ruiz reiterated Friday he is willing to approve the free trade agreement with the US.

Those opposing the deal said CAFTA will destroy national sovereignty; privatize health, communications, electricity, water and internet services and further impoverish farmers, as well as small and medium producers.

Nevertheless, Minister Ruiz noted the treaty should be ratified before beginning similar pacts with the European Union.

With that aim and to appease the US, he explained that it will be necessary to pass additional laws, which could be sent to Congress in June, such the strengthening of the national Electricity Institute, Social Security Fund and the telecommunications monopoly included in the agreement. "

trend: massive movement of business to Costa Rica over the next 5 years