El Cono Sur latinoamericano y la Iniciativa para las Américas

Abstract

The changes that have occurred in various parts of the world in recent years have meant a profound transformation in the international system. In current processes, not only security issues are involved. At the same time, the great changes in Latin America –economic and political openness– make it necessary to seek new forms of cooperation, especially with the hemispheric power. For all the above, a pattern of associative relationship must be generated to face the challenges, reconciling interests and defining spaces for cooperation. In this context, and in response to the creation of commercial blocks, the Americas Initiative is located. This paper explains what it consists of, what it represents for the United States, and the difficulties it has faced since its formulation. Finally, reference is made to the Latin American reaction, to conclude with the factors that have reduced the political weight of the Initiative, leaving it subordinate to NAFTA.