Our countries need more efficient institutions in the social sector, implementing new social programs and carrying more weight in the over all policies of our Governments. Making this happen is one of our challenges at the OAS, and that is why this type of programs are so important to us. This Agreement is also very meaningful because it is precisely the type of cooperation that the upcoming CIDI most encourage. At the OAS we also have a major opportunity to be a key broker of infromation and experiences in social policy in the hemisphere. The Unit of Social Development should work to coordinate the efforts of international and national institutions in order to make the most out of all our resoruces and avoid duplications.
Today is a very important day for our three institutions.
This Agreement is just the first one of many others to come based on the same spirit and philosophy that led us here. We have learned to begin to work together, adding our experiences and resources for the people of this hemisphere, who after all, are the primary reason of our existence. By signing this Agreement we are starting 1996 three weeks ahead of time. The solutions to the problems of the hemisphere need this king of energy. I urge you to help us find ways to arrive at new solutions.