America’s blunder, Chavez’s success

The recent Colombian elections for governors, mayors, plus state and city legislators were remarkable, with much good news about the state of democracy in the long troubled country. Unfortunately, there was as much gloomy news as the nation looks to 2010 presidential elections. Possible worrisome scenarios for Colombia’s future.

NEWS:

• Argentina elects first lady president. Kirchners to have control over Congress. President Bush congratulates Argentine president-elect.
• Guatemala candidates spend Millions.
• Brazilian president dismisses speculation on third term. Brazil denies "arms race" with Venezuela. Interoceanic Highway to join Peru-Brazil and benefit millions.
• Chavez meets with new U.S. ambassador to Venezuela. Venezuelan cocaine traffic increasing. Syria, Iran, Malaysia and Venezuela ink 2.6-billion-dollar oil deal. Venezuela to Give 14.2 Million for Emergency in Nicaragua. Venezuelans line up for milk in latest shortage. Spain’s Secretary of State meets with Chávez. Chavez’s arms race complicates the region.
• UN condemns embargo on Cuba.
• Peru: Japanese politicians meet in Congress to help Alberto Fujimori. U.S. House Committee approves Peru-U.S. free trade agreement unanimously. Peru seeks extradition of former top adviser of Bolivia’s Morales. Peru governor stands up for ALBA.
• Antarctica sea bed: Chile will assert rights in UN. Bachelet Does Not Recover in Chile.
• Evo Blasts U.S. "Imperialism" from Italy. Bolivian Senate OK’s more diesel imports from Venezuela.  

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