President embarks on Asia trip

President Laura Chinchilla left to China today to attract investment from the fast-growing Chinese economy.

The China tour, which ends Aug. 19, will attempt to strengthen ties between Costa Rica and its new ally in Asia. The countries first established diplomatic relations in 2007, after Costa Rica cut ties with Taiwan. Chinchilla will discuss security and improving infrastructure during a trip that includes ministers of foreign trade, security, tourism and foreign relations.  

The president’s tour begins in Shanghai and includes a visit next Thursday with Chinese President Hu Jintao in Beijing. 

On Aug. 20, Chinchilla and her entourage will visit Seoul, South Korea, for two days to talk about a free trade agreement, before returning to Costa Rica.