Uruguay-United States relations

Uruguay-United States relations are bilateral relations between Uruguay and the United States.

U.S.-Uruguayan relations traditionally have been based on a common outlook and emphasis on democratic ideals. In 2002, Uruguay and the U.S. created a Joint Commission on Trade and Investment (JCTI) to exchange ideas on a variety of economic topics. In March 2003, the JCTI identified six areas of concentration until the eventual signing of the Free Trade Area of the Americas (FTAA): customs issues, intellectual property protection, investment, labor, environment, and trade in goods. In late 2004, Uruguay and the U.S. signed an Open Skies Agreement, which was ratified in May 2006. In November 2005, they signed a Bilateral Investment Treaty (BIT), which entered into force on November 1, 2006. A Trade and Investment Framework Agreement (TIFA) was signed in January 2007. More than 80 U.S.-owned companies operate in Uruguay, and many more market U.S. goods and services.

Uruguay cooperates with the U.S. on law enforcement matters such as regional efforts to fight drug trafficking and terrorism. It has also been very active in human rights issues.

From 1999 through early 2003 Uruguayan citizens were exempted from visas when entering the United States under the Visa Waiver Program. This exemption was withdrawn on April 16, 2003, based on the high overstay rates for Uruguayans and worldwide national security concerns.

The U.S. maintains an embassy in Montevideo.

Principal U.S. Embassy Officials:
* Ambassador - Frank E. Baxter
* Deputy Chief of Mission - Peter Harding (acting)
* Political/Economic Counselor - Peter Harding
* Economic/Commercial Section Chief - James Perez
* Consul - Blossom Perry
* Chief, Management Section - Theresa Stewart
* Public Affairs Officer - Robert Zimmerman
* Defense Attaché - LTC Patrick Hall
* Chief, Office of Defense Cooperation - Col. Derek Dickey

ee also

* Foreign relations of Uruguay
* Foreign relations of the United States
* Embassy of Uruguay in Washington

References

StateDept [http://www.state.gov/r/pa/ei/bgn/2091.htm]