Bolivia: New Economic Model in Progress

Mario Hubert Garrido
La Paz, Jul 22

Bolivian president Evo Morales arrives this Sunday to the first 18 months in power with a new economic model in progress, based on the recovery of natural resources and industrialization as the next stage.

"We have a new economic model, a new economic system that means the beginning of a process of industrialization of the country, it is a democratic way of changing Bolivia after recovering its natural resources," asserted the dignitary.

Morales assumed power on January 22, 2006 after winning 54 percent of the votes, a historical victory in over two decades in which any candidate won elections directly.

Eighteen months after, Morales told Prensa Latina that the national economy is sound and investments prioritize production.

Nothing has been historically prioritized in this country which for more than a century and a half has remained an exporter of raw materials but without benefiting from it.

Industrialization is the next priority. "We need partners, the economic situation is changing," he congratulated himself assuring that "macro economic stability is now having its repercussion in the micro economy."

In addition, Morales explained there are other achievements like the agrarian revolution, the social programs and the establishment of the Constituent Assembly that will write a new Constitution to refound the country, as a sample of a real democracy.

He also praised the health and education plans supported by Cuba and Venezuela.

"The most important thing is that we have fulfilled what political science means to us: serve the people," added the Bolivian president.