ARLINGTON, VIRGINIA - (March 11, 2003) Earlier today, the U.S. Trade and Development Agency (USTDA) sponsored a technical symposium at the agency's headquarters on Uruguay's Montevideo Carrasco International Airport concession project. On April 29, 2003, the Government of Uruguay will offer the absolute sale of 100 percent of the shares of Puerta del Sur, S.A., a company formed by the Government of Uruguay and holder of a 20-year concession to operate the Carrasco airport.

The USTDA-sponsored technical symposium held today was designed to provide a forum for the Hon. Lucio Cáceres, Minister of Transportation and Public Works; Mr. Aldo Bonsignore, Director of the Corporación Nacional para el Desarrollo (CND), the Uruguayan Development Agency; and Brig. Gen. Enrique Bonelli, National Director of Civil Aviation and Aviation Infrastructure to present the project to prospective U.S. bidders and consulting and engineering firms. The event was attended by approximately 15 U.S. companies.

USTDA Director Thelma J. Askey opened the symposium and welcomed the Uruguayan delegation and the U.S. attendees. In addressing symposium participants, Director Askey commented, "As we reviewed this project at USTDA, it quickly became apparent that this concession is rather unique. Specifically, CND has created a corporation of registered shares representing the right to take over operation of the airport. We are pleased to sponsor this event to bring together both sides of this transaction and to stimulate interest among U.S. businesses who would like to participant in this distinctive project."

The U.S. Trade and Development Agency advances economic development and U.S. commercial interests in developing and middle-income countries. The agency funds various forms of technical assistance, feasibility studies, training, orientation visits and business workshops that support the development of a modern infrastructure and a fair and open trading environment. USTDA's strategic use of foreign assistance funds to support sound investment policy and decision-making in host countries creates an enabling environment for trade, investment and sustainable economic development. In carrying out its mission, USTDA gives emphasis to economic sectors that may benefit from U.S. exports of goods and services.

Back to Press Releases