HC Deb 26 October 1987 vol 121 cc46-7W
Mr. Wray

asked the Secretary of State for Foreign and Commonwealth Affairs what part Her Majesty's Government will play in support of the special relationship between the European Economic Community and the Latin American countries of the Rio de Janeiro group.

Mr. Eggar

Together with his Community colleagues my right hon. and learned Friend attended the informal meeting between the Foreign Ministers of the Twelve arid the Group of Eight on 23 September in New York. We will play a full part in any further contacts. The Foreign Affairs Council held in June 1987 agreed important conclusions concerning the links between the EC and Latin America.

Mr. Wray

asked the Secretary of State for Foreign and Commonwealth Affairs if Her Majesty's Government will play an active and positive part in the emergency plans for the economic and political reconstruction of Central America as proposed by the Rio de Janeiro group of countries to the European Community.

Mr. Eggar

Together with our Community partners we already play a positive role in assisting Central America and supporting efforts to find a peaceful settlement in the region. EC aid commitments to the region have doubled since 1984 when the EC-Central American dialogue started. The co-operation agreement between the EC and Costa Rica, El Salvador, Guatemala, Honduras, Nicaragua and Panama, signed in 1985, will be reviewed further at the fourth ministerial meeting to be held early next year. The establishment of peace would facilitate the more effective use of aid resources.

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