Arias Calls for Stricter Controls on Arms Trading
Costa Rica's President Oscar Arias on Friday expressed worries over the weapons trade in Latin America and called for stricter controls on the business.

The weapons trade is among the region's most corrupt, Sanchez told the 12th International Anti-Corruption Conference held in Guatemala City, capital of Guatemala, according to a statement from the president's office.

During a debate on corruption and poverty, the Costa Rican leader reiterated his call for more restrictions on arms trading, which has increased 23 percent in Latin America since 1996.

Arias also called for more control of funds used to purchase military equipment, adding that investments in the arms industry reduced money available for education, health and housing.

Collective ethics were needed to fight corruption in Central America, Arias said. "If we are to fight corruption, we must teach our children ethics, which make them value something more than self-interest, material benefit and immediate gratification."