President of Guatemala optimistic his proposal to legalize drugs

The president of Guatemala , Otto Perez, expressed optimism about the results of the summit of the Isthmus, in Honduras, with the participation of Vice President, Joe Biden , for his proposal to decriminalize drugs, despite the disinterest of most of its colleagues.

"It was more than we expected because it got out a statement signed by the leaders on where they make the commitment to give up the initiative presented by President of Guatemala," Perez said at a press conference this Wednesday his return from Honduras.

In a joint statement, the presidents of El Salvador, Honduras, Nicaragua, Costa Rica and Panama, in addition to Perez, agreed to meet on March 24 in Guatemala to discuss new ways to combat drug trafficking, including the proposal of Guatemala.

"All presidents are willing to enter into a discussion and finding new ways to tackle the drugs problem," said Perez.

Perez said he is satisfied with the results of the summit because his initiative has raised the interest to remain united and find alternatives to what has been done in the war on drugs.

"We are accomplishing something. We need to debate and discuss how it has addressed the phenomenon of drug trafficking, "he added.

So far, only Costa Rica has expressed support for the initiative in Guatemala.The other countries in the region have taken a contrary position, consistent with which Washington said from Perez discussed the matter on 11 February.