Living in Peru : your everyday companion

(LIP-jl) -- The date has been set for the second meeting between United States President George W. Bush and his Peruvian counterpart, President Alan Garcia, for next month.

The presidential meeting will occur after the U.S. Congress announces its decision regarding the free trade agreement between the U.S. and Peru.

According to White House Deputy Press Secretary Dana Perino, the presidential encounter will take place in the Oval Office on April 23.

"This meeting will highlight the friendship and cooperation between the United States and Peru, as well as being an excellent opportunity for President Bush to continue building his relationship with a key regional ally who is committed to democracy," stated Perino.

"Both leaders will discuss their continued cooperation in mutual issues, such as the importance of the free trade agreement and its effect on economic sustainability, the creation of jobs, and prosperity," commented the White House spokesperson.

This will be President Garcia's second meeting with U.S. President Bush. Garcia traveled to Washington last October.

During that meeting Garcia stated, "We see our role as a country in terms of helping strengthen democracy and achieving friendship without threat in our region. In this regard, Peru will continue to work towards the democratization of Latin America."