POLITICAL STABILITY

Costa Rica is one of the oldest democracies in Latin America, and is known as one of the most stable and politically, socially and environmentally progressive countries in the region. The country abolished its standing army in 1948 and invested the resources previously committed to defense in conservation, education and public health. Dr. Oscar Arias, Noble Peace Prize recipient in 1987, was elected President of the country, his second term, in February of 2006.

ECONOMY

Costa Rica's basically stable economy depends on tourism, exports of microchips, medical devices and agriculture. Foreign investors are attracted by the country's renowned political stability and high education levels of potential employees. Among others, well known companies such as Intel, Hewlett Packard, Procter & Gamble, Baxter Healthcare maintain sizable operations in Costa Rica.