Robert B. Zoellick, President of the World Bank Group, noted that the region could be more competitive if, working together, you removed bottlenecks to growth
modernized customs systems
facilitated trade
improved infrastructure, integrated your energy grid, and enhanced transport
strengthened the education and skills of your people
and created a better environment for private investment, small business and entrepreneurs. He spoke on the following topics: past and recent integration achievements
an agenda for integration
and the package of World Bank Group initiatives. He announced a two-year trade facilitation window, support for an INCAE training program for public administration, a technical assistance facility to support trade promotion, and a program to support judicial transparency.