75 Quotes by Oscar Arias

If there is no peace in Central America, it will not be because Costa Rica, and myself as president, have not done what is necessary to obtain peace.

Free trade will go a long way toward alleviating poverty in Central America. Yet trade alone is not enough.

During the 41 years that have elapsed since Costa Rica abolished its army, our fundamental freedoms have never been threatened, nor do we know a shameful history of repression.

In a democracy, a leader must be the head teacher, someone eager to respond to doubts and questions and explain the need for and the benefits of a new course.

Our experience shows that security does not lie in weapons or fences or armies.

A nation that mistreats its own citizens is more likely to mistreat its neighbours.

I do not believe that the hungry man should be treated as subversive for expressing his suffering.

I often say that poverty needs no passport to travel.

I saw no reason why other nations should tell Central Americans how to solve their problems.