BIRMINGHAM, Ala. – Marking its first linkup in years with a foreign credit union association, the Alabama Credit Union League said last week it has formed a partnership with FEDEAC, a Costa Rican CU organization, and the World Council of Credit Unions. During an Aug. 12 meeting of its Board, the League voted unanimously to form a partnership for information sharing, cooperation, and other joint activities. "A cornerstone of the credit union difference is cooperation," said League Board Chair Dale Dalbey, CEO of Mutual Savings Credit Union. "The value of cooperation extends beyond our lobby doors and around the world. This is a great opportunity for credit unions in Alabama and Costa Rica to learn from each other, and share our strengths with each other." Credit unions in Alabama will begin working with WOCCU and FEDEAC "to identify areas of cooperation and develop a plan for working together." There are 70 active credit unions in Costa Rica serving 490,545 members "The League's Board and our staff are looking forward to this opportunity to work with credit unions in another part of the world," said League CEO Gary B. Wolter. "Costa Rica is a success story with a sound economy, a rich democratic tradition, and a strong and growing credit union movement. This cooperative venture will benefit credit unions in both Costa Rica and Alabama."