Stories for June 17th 2004
Breaking news form Chile.
Headlines:
Chile programs natural gas supply diversification;
1,7 million tourists expected in Chile this year; “White Lady” celebrates 50 years.
Closer Brazil-Chile cooperation.
Chile and Brazil agreed to renew efforts with the purpose of achieving South American countries integration emphasizing trade, communications infrastructure and science and technology development.
IMF concern with Argentine inflation.
The IMF delegation currently in Buenos Aires for the third review of the stand-by agreement with Argentina said they were concerned with the retail prices index which is expected to reach 7,2% in 2004, far above the IMF forecasted 3% for the whole year.
Tragedy in Patagonia coal mine.
Six miners killed, eight missing and dozens treated for intoxication with carbon monoxide is the primary result of a fire that swept through a coal mine 600 meters deep, in the Patagonian province of Santa Cruz a few miles away from Puerto Natales in Chile.
Basic rate in Brazil remains unchanged at 16%
The Monetary Policy Committee of the Brazilian Central Bank decided this Wednesday for the third consecutive time to keep the basic Selic rate unchanged at 16% (9% in real terms). The decision was unanimous.
