Excerpt: As much of the world economy struggles to find firm footing, it is an important time to remember that foreign direct investment and commercial development work best when rule of law is placed front and center, especially in developing countries.Without proper safeguards and the enforcement of treaties, foreign investors often find themselves marginalized to the benefit of domestic industries. When this occurs, other investors frequently pull out of the host country, taking with them valuable capital, expertise, training and improvements in infrastructure.The result can be devastating to the host country’s economy, and a blow to the standard of living of its people.One country that currently is heading down this perilous path is Ecuador. In recent months, the country has set several dangerous precedents against free trade and the rule of law.http://thehill.com/blogs/global-affairs/guest-commentary/262265-national-foreign-trade-council-president-bill-reinsch-opportunity-for-course-correction-in-ecuador