Nobel winner Arias speaks

Oscar Arias Sanchez, former president of Costa Rica and winner of the Nobel Peace Prize, began his address to the First Latin American Conference at Wharton by saying that Latin America is heading toward economic progress. Arias was the keynote speaker at the conference, which was held last Friday at the University Museum. The speech addressed the changes and progress that have already taken place in Latin America and those which are still neccessary. "There is a trend in Latin America toward democratic institutions," Arias said. "For peace to survive and the region to enjoy the fruits of growth, all countries must have a democratic government." Arias indicated that many countries of the Third World need to concentrate on human development as opposed to strict economic growth. "While people believe economic efficiency has the magical power to generate liberty and justice, these interpretations lack human significance," Arias said. "The first challenge of the future is to deal with the needs and aspirations of humans, not just economic growth," Arias said, listing education, health and a clean and safe environment as top priorities. Arias cited the military as the "most wasteful extravaganza" of Latin America. Turning to the trade issue, Arias said that economic integration of the region, if agreed upon democratically, could help consolidate a Latin-American identity while preserving individuality and diversity. "The formation of a Latin-American trade bloc should not be a trade barrier against other regions, instead should promote trade," Arias said. Arias added that he hopes to improve the quality of life and the freedoms of the people through trade, though it will be a tough battle. "Integration will strengthen the position of each member of the block through contact with countries outside the region," Arias said. "I am not prophesizing, but predicting, when I say the external debt will hinder the growth we hope to gain through free trade." Arias said he hopes that by consolidating Latin America, the region can become one of geographical, cultural and demographic importance. Arias closed his speech with an inspirational hope for the future. "It is possible that the world will now begin an historic ascent where power does not come from violence and physical strength, but from faith in humanity and the value of reason," he said. After a lengthy applause, the floor was opened to questions. In response to one question by a Wharton student, Arias said that since the Cold War ended, he does not see a good reason for the United States to continue its trade embargo with Cuba, but he does not believe anything will change until after the November election. Wharton senior Joe Oliver asked what Arias thought of Bush's lack of interest in the upcoming environmental conference in Brazil. "To govern is to choose," Arias reponded. "If everything is a priority to you then you don't have any priorities." Arias said he does not see the environment as a priority in the United States. Arias finished to a standing ovation. Conference Chairperson Carlos Alicea, who introduced Arias, said the conference was a success. "The conference has extended our understanding of the complications of globalization," Alicea said. Wharton MBA student Eric Penanhoat said he thought Arias's speech was a good culmination to the day's events, which included a series of speakers about issues relating to finance and economics in Latin America. Penanhoat said that while the conference was a little slow in the begining, the second half of the day was interesting. "We dealt with issues in Latin America and the world and could see the financial, political, and social points of view," Penanhoat said. "Arias was marvelous, he gave us a wider, more philosophical point of view."

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