Ministerial delegations of the countries discussing the FTAA Ministerial Declaration do not take into consideration one of the greatest obstacles faced by less favored countries, that is, the high level of corruption institutionalized at all levels of government and in business circles. Therefore, in drafting their declarations, delegations must include their commitment to free the hemisphere of this corruption which keeps our people in conditions of poverty and unable to compete, receive an education and health care, protect the environment, inter alia. We will be able to combat and eradicate corruption only when financial havens and individuals sentenced by the courts under due process as corrupt no longer act as hosts. The FTAA must set aside all ambiguities and issue a clear position in this regard.