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Uruguay - Relations with U.S. (Notes)

U.S.-URUGUAYAN RELATIONS 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 This exemption was withdrawn on April 16, 2003, based on the high overstay rates for Uruguayans and worldwide national security concerns. Principal U.S. Embassy Officials Ambassador--Frank E. Baxter Deputy Chief of Mission--James D. Nealon Political/Economic Counselor--Peter Harding Economic/Commercial Section Chief--James Perez Consul--Blossom Perry Chief, Management Section--Theresa Stewart Public Affairs Officer--Linda González Defense Attaché--LTC Frank Wagdalt, USA Chief, Office of Defense Cooperation--Col. Maria Cordero, USAF The U.S. Embassy in Uruguay is located at Lauro Muller 1776, Montevideo (tel: 598-2 418-7777; fax: 598-2-410-0022). The mailing address for the embassy is UNIT 4500, APO AA 34035. The Embassy also has an Internet web page at http://montevideo.usembassy.gov/ Other Contact Information U.S. Department of Commerce Trade Information Center International Trade Administration 14th and Constitution Avenue, NW Washington, DC 20230 Tel: 800-USA-TRADE Home page: http://www.export.gov/ American Chamber of Commerce in Uruguay Plaza Independencia 831, Oficina 209 Edificio Plaza Mayor 11100 Montevideo, Uruguay Tel: (5982) 908-9186 Fax: (5982) 908-9187 Home page: http://www.ccuruguayusa.com/ E-mail: [email protected]