The Regional Center for the Support of the Global Compact in Latin America and the Caribbean was launched recently. At an event that drew participation from the private and public sectors throughout the Latin American region, Colombian President, Alvaro Uribe, said that Colombia was honoured and proud to have the centre in Bogota.

One hundred and fifteen members of the regional business community and government leaders were at the launch, held at the Presidential Palace in Bogota. Broadcast live to 11 Latin American countries, the event was also attended by the ambassadors of Argentina, Bolivia, Brazil, Canada, Chile, Costa Rica, Dominican Republic, Mexico, Panama, Paraguay and Spain.

President Alvaro Uribe, in his speech, also emphasised that the centre was emblematic of how the entire region acts in a more integrated manner. Head of Local Networks in the Global Compact Office, Soren Petersen, recognised the founding members of the centre, highlighting the achievement of its Director, Diana Chávez, in the creation of this collaborative platform.

To ensure optimal support and true regional reach of the centre, comprehensive consultations with various stakeholders preceded the launch. Both the centre’s Board and the founders agreed to demonstrate achievements and future commitments at the upcoming Global Compact Leaders Summit in June 2010.