Stories for June 23rd 2012
US demands Argentina “immediately” ends the import licensing regime
The United States demanded on Friday that Argentina “immediately” end an import licensing regime and other curbs that have frustrated foreign suppliers while also expressing concerns about a “sweeping new import restriction” that Indonesia has imposed.
Moody’s downgrades ratings of 15 big banks; Citigroup strongly criticizes decision
Ratings agency Moody's downgraded 15 of the world's biggest banks, lowering credit ratings by one to three notches to reflect the risk of losses they face from volatile capital markets activities, but banks criticized the move as backward looking.
EU leaders agree growth measures but remain divided on mutualized bonds issue
The leaders of Germany, France, Italy and Spain agreed Friday on a 130 billion Euros package to try to revive economic growth in Europe but differed over whether and how to launch joint bonds to combat the Euro zone's debt crisis.
Franco promises to uphold democracy and honour international agreements
Paraguayan vice-president Federico Franco, 49, was sworn-in on Friday afternoon as president following Fernando Lugo’s impeachment that had him removed in less than two days.
“A coup against democracy” organized by the political class and mafia claims Lugo
Ousted Paraguayan President Fernando Lugo addressed thousands of citizens outside the presidential palace and assured there had been a “coup against democracy” but also said he would respect the formality of the Senate’s decision and called on followers to march peacefully.
Uruguay hosts highest Chinese official to ever visit the country
Chinese Premier Wen Jiabao arrived in Uruguay Friday, his first stop on a multi-nation visit to South America. Wen's arrival marks the first time a Chinese premier has visited Uruguay since diplomatic ties were established in 1988.
Mercosur/Unasur anticipate “appropriate measures” against coup in Paraguay
President Cristina Fernández assured on Friday night that “Argentina does not condone the coup in Paraguay” and anticipated that “appropriate measures” will be taken at next week’s Mercosur Summit, scheduled to take place in Mendoza.
