The Central American Parliament (PARLACEN) acknowledged the DR, represented by President Leonel Fernandez, for its contribution to its strengthening and for having paid up its financial commitments with the regional organization, according to the Presidency Press Department. PARLACEN thanked the Dominican government for its commitment towards Central American integration and the strengthening of the organization. By keeping up with its commitments during trying economic times the DR is an example of the type of sacrifice it is willing to make in favor of regional integration. The Dominican state began participating in the Central American integration process in 1997.