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Argentine government condemns “clear efforts of destabilization” in Venezuela

Friday, February 14th 2014 - 07:15 UTC
Full article 109 comments

The Argentine government has condemned what it terms “clear efforts of destabilization” in Venezuela, following Wednesday's clashes which left three dead and dozens injured on the streets of Caracas. Read full article

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  • Gordo1

    Now they want to interfere in the internal affairs of Venezuela!

    Feb 14th, 2014 - 07:34 am - Link - Report abuse 0
  • Pirate Love

    of course argentina will condemn it, its called fear, the fear that one day argentinas own down trodden people will rise up and lynch its lying corrupt dictocracy of a goverment, the sooner the better.

    Feb 14th, 2014 - 08:13 am - Link - Report abuse 0
  • Anglotino

    First she calls Venezuela a legitimate and democratic country but then she calls them a ferocious military dictatorship.

    “The legacy of repression, massive abuse of human rights and deepening of poverty left by the ferocious military dictatorships that devastated Latin America”

    Feb 14th, 2014 - 08:38 am - Link - Report abuse 0
  • Idlehands

    What she's saying is “market economics doesn't behave as we'd like”

    Feb 14th, 2014 - 09:38 am - Link - Report abuse 0
  • Captain Poppy

    #2 Argentina has no military left left, asslips destroyed thankfully for the people. When the RG's riseup....there will be little to stop them from Mussolini'ing her.

    Feb 14th, 2014 - 09:55 am - Link - Report abuse 0
  • Usurping Pirate

    Very interesting articles in the RG press about Timmerman's ministry .
    All the professional diplomats have been ousted in favour of the sort of Camporista clowns who troll on here .Trolling is probably part of the new entrance exam .
    For those of you that “habla” to quote Clint Eastwood in Heartbreak Ridge .
    http://www.clarin.com/politica/Denuncia-laboral-Cancilleria-empleados-despedidos_0_1078692590.html
    http://www.clarin.com/politica/Denuncia-laboral-Cancilleria-empleados-despedidos_0_1078692590.html
    A new administration is going to have to carry out a very deep clean of all facets of government after 10 years of brainwashing by these pseudo marxist idiots .

    Feb 14th, 2014 - 10:12 am - Link - Report abuse 0
  • Squeaky

    The destabilizing forces are the very people at the “top”: you simply have to look at countries that work! This BS idea that the whole world is against Venezuela and Argentina is just wrong thinking. I'd like to build a small commercial building with much needed housing above; and service a 50 lot subdivision on land that my wife has inherited. One, I would have to bring the money in from abroad; and ,two, would have to have a reasonable rate of real return. These conditions don't exist here, sadly! It will require a regime change and several years of healing before this benighted country can again say“open for business”.

    Feb 14th, 2014 - 10:43 am - Link - Report abuse 0
  • Mendoza Canadian

    CFK condemns the efforts, not the people of Argentina...she is the only one who is a bit “red” in the face.

    Feb 14th, 2014 - 11:01 am - Link - Report abuse 0
  • Optimus_Princeps

    This is just foreshadowing for her fate. She has all the right in the world to be scared.

    Feb 14th, 2014 - 12:31 pm - Link - Report abuse 0
  • Briton

    Argentine government condemns
    just look at CFK in the picture,
    interfering old has been,
    do as she says or else.

    Argentine, mind ya own...

    Feb 14th, 2014 - 01:08 pm - Link - Report abuse 0
  • Conqueror

    @1 And why not? It's only the corrupt, criminal “government” of argieland. Perhaps the ordinary rational people of Argentina and Venezuela will finally recognise the truth, join together and oust the criminals.
    @5 Oh, goody. Are their adequate supplies of butcher's hooks and piano wire? But it should be done properly this time. Don't bother with killing them first and then stringing them up. Piano wire round the throat, hooked over butcher's hook and heave. Watch the wire cutting though the throat until the head comes off. Then it'll be time for soccer (SOCK HER). A “special” for the World Cup? A “kickaround” in the nearest Falklands minefield?

    Feb 14th, 2014 - 01:19 pm - Link - Report abuse 0
  • GFace

    No doubt she's taking notes on how to arrest the opposition after sending her own brownshirts out to kick up some violence.

    Feb 14th, 2014 - 01:51 pm - Link - Report abuse 0
  • yankeeboy

    I would love to see the first domino fall.

    Meanwhile in Argentina, the avg Rg has to work 3 hours for a bag of lettuce.

    Feb 14th, 2014 - 01:58 pm - Link - Report abuse 0
  • Captain Poppy

    Yankee....220 pesos for a kg off beef.

    Feb 14th, 2014 - 02:20 pm - Link - Report abuse 0
  • GFace

    @13 I'd rather see a magical enchanted unicorn tea party flutter down on the top of the like a cherry and happy sprinkles southern cone and undue the damage Chavismo and Peronism has done and make everyone happy, prosperous, civil, wholesome and free but not even that would help, and I fear, we'd just be yelled at for Kawaii-ing the south atlantic. They are already a dictatorship with no effective opposing press, openly attacking legislators in their own House, choreographing looting and “counter” '“protests”' with their browns shirts... And this is something to **emulate**?!? Only if you are a fascist.

    Feb 14th, 2014 - 02:23 pm - Link - Report abuse 0
  • yankeeboy

    14. They need to work a day and 1/3 to buy beef! Shortly before I moved to Argentina a friend of mine just moved from there to the USA. He couldn't believe how cheap everything was IN NYC as compared to BA!
    I didn't believe him. I couldn't understand how the price/income ratio could get so out of whack.
    Now I understand completely.

    I can hear the cracking from here.

    Feb 14th, 2014 - 02:34 pm - Link - Report abuse 0
  • Captain Poppy

    And it is true that tuna and cheeses have these security devices on them.

    But life is but a dream in the land of Oz aka...Argentina. Toto has pulled back the curtain and the people are not thrilled seeing the Great Wizard Kirchner for what she is. I understand the continued power outages are having more protests in BsAs city.

    The biggest thing I noticed when my wife's family visits is not just the prices.........but choices......amazed at so many choices of the same thing.

    Feb 14th, 2014 - 02:48 pm - Link - Report abuse 0
  • Welsh Wizard

    two and a half year ago when we were there, milk and bread already cost the same as in our local newsagents in Chelsea

    Feb 14th, 2014 - 03:07 pm - Link - Report abuse 0
  • CabezaDura2

    When the police opens fire at the protestors you are undoubtedly in facing a dictatorial regime. I wonder if she will order the cops to fire upon the people too.

    Cant even believe the death toll was only 4 ppl in Venezuela.

    http://www.lanacion.com.ar/1664105-eeuu-y-la-union-europea-preocupados-por-venezuela-y-con-una-advertencia-a-nicolas-maduro

    Venezuela has about to 50.000 cuban agents securing the oil and money flow of the Castro Regime. The Diosdado Cabello held secret services are very powerful too. It would take a civil war to undo the regime or a very assertive Brazilian government that succeeds Dilma that forces UNASUR to pressure the regime

    Feb 14th, 2014 - 03:23 pm - Link - Report abuse 0
  • yankeeboy

    Then new inflation figure has the CER bonds up. Which means they need more Peso to pay them, more pesos printed, more in circulation, more inflation, where does it stop?

    Cue additional lawsuits over under payment of said CER bonds over the last decade.

    Multi Billions are owed.

    Oh what a tangled web we weave when first we practice to deceive...

    Feb 14th, 2014 - 03:34 pm - Link - Report abuse 0
  • Squeaky

    A good friend of ours has bought 8000 has. of marginal farmland, but in a pretty situation,lakefront etc. He has yet to receive title to his lands, after 9 years of struggle. He will buy 120 more herefords, build a new barn, and put up a significant new home; all of this would create jobs and IVA. Does he have title; no. Why not, he is a Russian ,who has come to steal the water or?
    Come on people, get the bureaucracy and the politicos out of the way, and let's do some business!

    Feb 14th, 2014 - 03:40 pm - Link - Report abuse 0
  • ElaineB

    @17 “And it is true that tuna and cheeses have these security devices on them.”

    I wasn't making it up. : )

    Feb 14th, 2014 - 04:08 pm - Link - Report abuse 0
  • ChrisR

    It amuses my why the “big” supermarkets in Uruguay have armed guards on show even when the cash is not being collected. This is usually just one person who carries a revolver or cheap 9mm semi-automatic and collects the trolleys! It is only in the last six months that they have been issued with anti-stab vests.

    These people would be about as much use as a chocolate fireguard at preventing a three or four member gang intent on robbing the place.

    I can absolutely see why Argentina needs them now though!

    Ha, ha, ha.

    Feb 14th, 2014 - 05:17 pm - Link - Report abuse 0
  • Captain Poppy

    #21 My wife is a Portena and bought land just before I meet her. Over five years and no title. It's in lawyers hands now. Here....when you close on real estate the deeds are signed over right then and there. It's strange the way the do land transactions in Argentina. Fromn my POV.....no deed.....no dollars.

    Feb 14th, 2014 - 06:08 pm - Link - Report abuse 0
  • ElaineB

    @24 I wonder if CFK has the title deeds for all that property she and Nestor bought?

    Feb 14th, 2014 - 06:19 pm - Link - Report abuse 0
  • Usurping Pirate

    Is it another holiday in Argentina ? where are the trolls ?
    OK . I will be Duty Troll .
    You are all foreign neo liberal reactionaries who believe everything you read in Clarin and La Nacion ....
    There is no inflation in Argentina
    The economy is growing in double figures
    The price of soy will quadruple overnight and everything will be fine
    No unemployment
    No energy gap / shortage
    Every oil company in the world wants to buy into Vaca Muerta
    The Fuerza Aerea has a fleet of 200 new fighter planes on order and paid for .
    Cristina and her government have never stolen a thing, ever.
    El Diego really is a polo playing millionaire and Paulcedron plays rugby for BARC 3rdXV.
    The entire world supports Argentina in her territorial claim for anything they want , including the Falklands , half of Paraguay and Bolivia .
    Kicciloff is more economically savvy than Warren Buffett
    Timmerman is the greatest diplomat since Metternich
    The Iranians didn't bomb AMIA , Menem did it .
    Buying votes for free handouts IS sound economic policy
    Setting the age of criminal responsibility at 14 does not cause 13 year olds to shoot people
    There is no crime or drugs in Argentina , the Clarin people simply make it up .
    Trains are safe in Argentina
    Everyone loves Cristina ...

    Feb 14th, 2014 - 06:22 pm - Link - Report abuse 0
  • Briton

    probably true,
    if one was a troll....lol

    Feb 14th, 2014 - 07:37 pm - Link - Report abuse 0
  • Squeaky

    This is only a bit off topic: another example of “mad” thinking. I have a boat: I can own the motor, but not the boat (noDNI). I have a new 4x4 Kuga, but I cannot drive it over to Chile to enjoy the seafood! Why, I am an extranjero, and might buy high/sell low or? Anyone can fly to Vancouver, buy a car, drive all over North America, and sell the damned car wherever,whenever they please. Why don't these guys just get out of the way?

    Feb 14th, 2014 - 07:53 pm - Link - Report abuse 0
  • Tarquin Fin

    26
    Oh Lord! Wouldn't today be Christmas? I wouldn't be surprised if CFK changed this one too.
    Man! I don't want the union harassing me for doing overtime ... sh1t!
    Oh I know, it is probably “Goal Keeper” day ... pretty sure of that since “Hand of God” day is in june.
    Usually the brainwashed zombies get fridays off so they can go and stock themselves up with cheap wine and chorizos.
    Anyway, thanks for the heads up.

    Feb 14th, 2014 - 09:07 pm - Link - Report abuse 0
  • Paragon

    Does anyone who comments on here actually live in Arg currently ? or have lived here during the past year ? ( not just a business trip or tourist ) It seems to me that people comment using hearsay, For example someone posted on here several weeks ago that a foreign debit/ credit card cannot be used to draw pesos in B.A. lol, some of the above comments about the price of Tuna and security devices bear the same reality as the quote on credit/debit cards. Total invention or hearsay

    Feb 14th, 2014 - 09:08 pm - Link - Report abuse 0
  • reality check

    Is it going to get worse I wonder?

    Only one way to get rif of people with guns.

    Yep, more guns!

    Feb 14th, 2014 - 09:11 pm - Link - Report abuse 0
  • toooldtodieyoung

    “Cristina Fernandez blasting 'corporations and speculation groups' in Argentina”

    Did she do this “Blasting” before or after or DURING her brain operation???

    Feb 14th, 2014 - 09:24 pm - Link - Report abuse 0
  • Paragon

    @28 another example of hearsay or invention, you do not need DNI to own anything in Arg, your Passport serves just as well. You can sell any car or boat in Chile with the corresponding ownership papers ( Arg ) or sell it without them on the blackmarket, but this is risky as you remain the legal owner and will be liable if the said property is involved in any accident and you could be sued for damages or at the very least prosecuted for selling the property without papers lol

    Feb 14th, 2014 - 09:38 pm - Link - Report abuse 0
  • ilsen

    Ok, now this proves it! Crass-tina has gone totally off the rails. Why the hell is she shouting about Vnzla when she has so many problems at home? (rhetorical question!). TMBOA has now officially lost the plot!
    As Yankee @20 quite rightly points out the Vnzla regime currently owes $billions, the $3 billion (!) currently owed to international airlines is just the start. Sadly collapse into a rogue state is imminent.
    @30 Paragon. This thread mainly concerns VNZLA. Yes, I have family there. Yes, I do live there and have a home there. Also I have a home in London and work in London to support my family as it is impossible to make a living in VNZLA. Yes am fortunate to be able to do so. Yes, I love VNZLA,and yes I wish to see the crrent regime destroyed.

    Feb 14th, 2014 - 09:39 pm - Link - Report abuse 0
  • toooldtodieyoung

    34 ilsen

    “This thread mainly concerns VNZLA. Yes, I have family there. Yes, I do live there and have a home there. Also I have a home in London”

    Respect!!!.... Actually, Much respect!!

    Why is everyone else on this forum better traveled and more worldly than me?

    Note to self:- Must get out more.............

    Feb 14th, 2014 - 09:47 pm - Link - Report abuse 0
  • reality check

    Hey CIA!

    You know all those AK47's and RPG9's you collected in the Middle East.

    Think there's a client that can put them to good use!

    You know it makes sense.

    Feb 14th, 2014 - 10:01 pm - Link - Report abuse 0
  • Paragon

    @34 then why is everyone talking about Arg and Kirchner ? the thread is about Arg condemining the so called destabilization in VNZLA which follows her own line here after the devaluation her words Golpe de Los Mercados y Financieros. Its not exactly about VNZLA itself. My point was in reply to the many comments I have seen on here over the months regarding reality and what is actually happening in Arg many comments are hearsay or invention concerning everyday life in ARG

    Feb 14th, 2014 - 10:39 pm - Link - Report abuse 0
  • CabezaDura2

    34

    ilsen my advice is that you start pressuring the Brazilian embassies in the world because its only the Brazilian government that could warn the Regime about the faulty elections, human rights abuses, freedom of press or hyperinflation.. That is when Dilma leaves office I’m afraid.

    Feb 14th, 2014 - 11:00 pm - Link - Report abuse 0
  • reality check

    A decade won then.

    Do you realise how the rest of us live?

    Feb 14th, 2014 - 11:02 pm - Link - Report abuse 0
  • CabezaDura2

    39

    Of course it was a won decade...Ask Cristina, Boudou, Lazaro Baez, Cristóbal Lopez...even Néstor K's gardener became a millioner and hotel owner down south

    Feb 14th, 2014 - 11:31 pm - Link - Report abuse 0
  • Squeaky

    I live here 9 months a year, so fell I have my finger on the pulse: albeit in a small Welsh village in Patagonia. Just to finish my Kuga story, I paid 100% cash by draft from BA. Flew home thinking kind thoughts only to be told the car wasn't actually ready. After 8 days the happy news was all was AOK, so I went and picked it up. I only received the keys, no manual, no registration and no license plates (nor transit sticker) 51 days later I got what I should have had within an hour; in the meantime I was offered handcuffs,confiscation, and jail. If I wasn't there to file the legal documents for fraud, I would't believe it either

    Feb 15th, 2014 - 12:29 am - Link - Report abuse 0
  • Troy Tempest

    41 Squeaky

    I'm sure you never thought not to trust a dealership, who would?
    However, now that you know better, is that a fairly common sort of thing in Arg. ?

    Feb 15th, 2014 - 01:05 am - Link - Report abuse 0
  • Captain Poppy

    #30. While i may be an ocassional visitor, my wife lived there for 39 years and most of her family still lives there.

    Feb 15th, 2014 - 02:29 am - Link - Report abuse 0
  • Paragon

    @41 Squeaky you have changed the subject, You said that because you have no DNI you cannot own the boat but only the motor, if you bought a car without DNI you must have used your Passport, I have actually done this several times lol. DNI is not a requirement of ownership as you well know, or do you ? lol so why did you say you could not own the boat ? is this lack of knowledge or just posting a comment that bears no reality to how things are Gaiman Chubut by any chance ? we are almost neighbours lol @14 , 17 and 43 Capt Poppy, think you should get in touch with your wifes family to get an update on the Price of Beef per Kilo and ask them about the security devices on Tuna and Cheese while you are at it Some of the comments I have seen on here over the weeks and months bare no resemblence to reality, I am not defending the regime of Kirchner or VNZLA but the comments are just so far from reality it makes you look as bad as the Kirchners , Chavez and Maduro's of this world who utter unrealities on a regular basis not to mention some of the Trolls on here or maybe I have got it all wrong and people are just trolling against Arg for the sake of it lol, but that makes them as bad as the Arg trolls.

    Feb 15th, 2014 - 05:08 am - Link - Report abuse 0
  • CabezaDura2

    44

    There is a decadence that is evident and that the whole thing is about to crush down in any second, but yes I agree with you on those general appreciations.

    Despite so many mismanagement during so many years by the Kirchnerist the Argentine economy is proven once more very versatile and resilient. This is misunderstood from abroad or in this site is disregarded. Even the dollar has being timidly stabilized, but when March comes along and the harvest doesn’t provide the dollars they were expecting the blue will skyrocket again.
    http://economia.elpais.com/economia/2014/02/12/actualidad/1392221809_806015.html

    But it is amazing as the way they always find a small space to maneuver.

    Feb 15th, 2014 - 05:35 am - Link - Report abuse 0
  • Paragon

    @45 Cabeza Dura, Yes I agree things are on a knife edge and at a critical stage but I think we both know this has been coming for some time as a few people on here are aware also Lets just see how things pan out, without unrealistic comments based on hearsay or what they think is happening, or bearing false witness lol

    Feb 15th, 2014 - 05:57 am - Link - Report abuse 0
  • CabezaDura2

    A lot of people are here just to a bash Argentina, most of them don’t even have anything original to say any longer. It's about being part of some sort of gang or club for many of them. Most popular topics are Malvinas/Falklands and Argentina's economy. Other tan that its very monothematic here I’m afraid. But you do get some very good and intelligent debates or exchanges now and then

    Feb 15th, 2014 - 06:12 am - Link - Report abuse 0
  • Paragon

    Yeah I've been coming here for a while to read through the comments without commenting and agree with you, it does seem like a “ lets bash Argentina site ” lol and very repetative and yes there has been the odd good debate

    Feb 15th, 2014 - 06:49 am - Link - Report abuse 0
  • RICO

    It is strange to hear CFK going on against anti democratic forces. Madura and CFK are responsible for anti democratic repression, attacking the impartiality of the judiciary, stealing from the people, suppressing free speech. They are hardly pro democracy, they are only pro democracy as long as they are the only people wielding power.

    Feb 15th, 2014 - 10:43 am - Link - Report abuse 0
  • Usurping Pirate

    CD2 : I only come here to pull the chains of the camporista/malvinista trolls . Sadly too many Argentines think “recovering” the Malvinas is the be all and end all of every problem the country has ever faced . The camporistas would be laughable if they didn't actually have such a hold on power , particularly in education .
    In 1973 , even anti Peronistas thought the old man's return was the same .
    How wrong they were .
    I seriously think the country needs to be run by the UN .
    The masses simply do not understand democracy .

    Feb 15th, 2014 - 10:44 am - Link - Report abuse 0
  • yankeeboy

    I started to come here because there were ridiculous posts going on and on about the Glorious Peronista Fatherland of Argentina. I would merely point out inconsistencies in their statements, back them up with real references and tell them where these ridiculous anti-market, anti-personal property, populistic shenanigans of the Ks were going to lead.

    Ahh the good ol' days when Marco, Think, Toby, Axel thought the good days would never end and that I was foolish to think the heterodox policies weren't the one and true path to prosperity for every country.

    Just like I used to tell (you) them in a few years one of us will be right and one of us will be wrong.

    Feb 15th, 2014 - 11:09 am - Link - Report abuse 0
  • Squeaky

    Where else in the world am I allowed to own the back half of a boat i.e. 50 hp Honda, while the front half belongs to my pal with DNI. Don't tell me differently, I have a glove box full of papers explaining the silly situation. Some of these stupid laws must be struck from the books, so the country can ”get with the program. I got a BC driver's license in 8 mins. for $85.00, my pal, the owner of the front half of my boat, took 5 whole days to get his new one here, last month. Start criticizing, and fixing the bottom, and maybe it will work up to the top! Everything else is backwards here. I bought my wedding license in a drugstore in Canada, took 8 mins, and with coffee filters and a box of SOS cost $106.00. Love the rant space!

    Feb 15th, 2014 - 11:14 am - Link - Report abuse 0
  • yankeeboy

    My sincere hope is that a stake is driven through Bolivarian Socialism when both Venezuela and Argentina gov'ts collapse.

    FYI looks like they're having a little problem in Lujan and FINALLY the gov't is speaking out about the drug cartels running Rosario. That only took a decade. I doubt they'll do anything about it until CFK is gone.

    Feb 15th, 2014 - 11:52 am - Link - Report abuse 0
  • Captain Poppy

    After a while there is very little original things to say about the leadership of a country where the goal is to steer it into an iceberg and sink the working class.
    What new can one say about a president that has done more to destroy a country rich with potential then Peron?
    What original things can one say about a president that steals business?
    What new things can one say about a country has the second largest oil reserves in shale oil but cannot get meaningful investments from around the world? Or still needs to import more oil each and every year?

    Perhaps we can talk about the new criminal code and have new things to say? Like why was child pornography decriminalized? A pedophile haven in the works? You can murder you baby if you no longer want it and at worst get 3 years......WTF?!?!?!?!
    Murder will not longer get you live in prison....but a 30 year maximum sentence. The insaneness goes on.

    Trolls....you want new and original things to say about Argentina? You want positive things? Get rid of Kirchner and her thugs.

    http://www.buenosairesherald.com/article/152101/experts-deliver-penal-code-bill-to-cfk

    You RG trolls must be thin skinned. If you can't deal with the rocks being tossed you have but two options. Do not read this site.....or change your communist heading country. History shows that communism and socialism has done the least to help people of any system in the history of humanity.

    Feb 15th, 2014 - 01:58 pm - Link - Report abuse 0
  • MagnusMaster

    @54 ah yes, the new criminal code is insane. Unfortunately it's not just CFK that wants to legalize crimes, a lot of our judges are like that too. And nobody can kick them out.
    By the way, I think (not sure, IANAL) there was never life sentence in Argentina, not even in paper. “Life sentence” in Argentina usually means 25-35 years. In practice most murderers get out of jail in a couple of years, thanks to lenient and corrupt judges who use the “human rights” card.

    Feb 15th, 2014 - 04:45 pm - Link - Report abuse 0
  • Paragon

    @54, Poppy hope you are not refering to me as a Troll, I'm not even Argentine, have not voiced any opinión on the politics of Arg, or its historic problems, but did say I do not support the current regime. and I know very well the recent history of Arg, in addition to how life is today for the average Arg in the street. @52 still going on about owning half a boat, you are being taken for a ride lol ( perhaps in the boat ) it appears that you do not know what is required to own a complete boat, It makes me asume that you do not have any idea how to opérate in Arg, or are being ill advised on how to go about it

    Feb 15th, 2014 - 05:01 pm - Link - Report abuse 0
  • CabezaDura2

    You are an idiot Poppy, you are calling me a troll for what reason??? I’ve clashed many times with the Thinks, TTTs, Dany Berger. But I don’t limit myself to simply rant against the CFK and her gov’t... For starters I contribute with positive ideas now and then commenting on things that I would do or what should change, etc from time to time. I also discuss politics and economics. You also must understand who is who in Arg politics and how they really work…It’s far more complex than you would think. And yes I have talked and mentioned Arg security problems and addressed the threat of the cartels… I can also say in addition a thing or two about Zaffaroni’s Politicaly Correct laws free for all laws.

    And I’m sorry I just browse most of the comments of the likes of yourself because you have nothing constructive to contribute...

    Feb 15th, 2014 - 05:21 pm - Link - Report abuse 0
  • ilsen

    Kirchner and Maduro are ideological bed buddies.
    This the truth about recent events in Venezuela.
    Coming to a town near you. .. if you live in Argentina. ...

    https://yrj8usi8t5zbg6zcefy4.r.worldssl.net/video/que-el-mundo-sepa-whats-going-on-in-venezuela-en-ingles/

    Feb 15th, 2014 - 05:23 pm - Link - Report abuse 0
  • CabezaDura2

    58
    ilsen in 2015 Cristina and her ideological cronies and La Campora are leaving power, they are not coming back. I can guarantee that. Who ever succeeds her is going to have to sincere the situation ( if it hasn’t being done so by then). Even the peronist right wing is not going to be as close as bad as the Kirchnerists and authoritarian and useless as they are.

    Venezuela on the other hand has 50.000 cuban agents infiltrated in the venezuelan state, the security and intelligence services under the control of Diosdado Cabello. You need a civil war to kick them out, by the ballot box they are not leaving, for they have already rigged the last election that got Maduro into power.

    Feb 15th, 2014 - 05:38 pm - Link - Report abuse 0
  • ilsen

    @59 cd
    I agree with your second paragraph wholeheartedly.

    As for the first one, I'm not sure she will last that long...

    Feb 15th, 2014 - 05:44 pm - Link - Report abuse 0
  • CabezaDura2

    You must pressure the next Brazilian government they are the real regional power and have influence over Venezuela. You should protest in Brazil itself and in their embassies abroad once Dilma is gone. Make Brazilian gov't complice of the Chavista regime

    The EU and the US are diplomaticall eunuchs. They are not going to help you. they are useless I'm afraid and they will be “imperialist” and “colonialist” or “interventionist” if they comment on Vzla, so they will turn a blind eye

    Feb 15th, 2014 - 05:53 pm - Link - Report abuse 0
  • yankeeboy

    The USA has no interest in Venezuela. They voted the moron in they need to fix it themselves.
    Why do people think they can come whining to us everytime they need something.
    Go away.

    Feb 15th, 2014 - 05:58 pm - Link - Report abuse 0
  • CabezaDura2

    62
    Because retard, your secretary of State John Kerry has called for peaceful dialogue on both parts instead of openly condemning the government crackdown of the protests.

    http://es.mercopress.com/2014/02/14/venezuela-washington-pide-a-todas-las-partes-evitar-la-violencia-y-recurrir-al-dialogo

    You might as well keep silent if you don’t have the guts to say things for what they are

    Feb 15th, 2014 - 06:05 pm - Link - Report abuse 0
  • yankeeboy

    The US State Dept has that letter ready to go for every 3rd world country that is falling apart, they merely cut and paste whatever loser dictator's name out.
    This is a fitting end to Bolivarian Socialism

    Feb 15th, 2014 - 06:10 pm - Link - Report abuse 0
  • CabezaDura2

    Exactly that’s why I recommend ilsen to pressure the next Brazilian gov’t.

    Feb 15th, 2014 - 06:12 pm - Link - Report abuse 0
  • yankeeboy

    Rousseff has her own problems with rioting peasant and the failing economy.
    Why would she care what happens in V?
    Contagion?
    When one failed marxist gov't dies they may all go down like dominos.

    Goody

    Feb 15th, 2014 - 06:27 pm - Link - Report abuse 0
  • CabezaDura2

    Not Rouseff… But maybe and I repeat maybe Brazil will want to play a more assertive and positive role in the region.
    After all they want a permanent seat in the UNSC, and for that being a good leading power in the neighborhood is needed, not just sending peace keepers to Haiti and producing Swedish fighter jets, so they might have to do a little more to earn it like helping out the end of the war in Colombia, combating drug trafficking in the region and speak out for human right abuses, transparency and freedom of speech and prompting development.

    Feb 15th, 2014 - 06:38 pm - Link - Report abuse 0
  • yankeeboy

    They could start with that list in their own borders before interfering in somebody elses country.
    Brazil wants to have it both ways, they want to be considered developing to get all the incentives that are offered by rich countries yet they also want to be considered rich to be able to play with the big boys.

    Any country that has rioting peasants is not ready to participate outside of their own borders.

    I don't see anyone bothering with V. It's not in anyones interest as long as it can be contained.
    There are many more countries that want it to fail than see it keep going down the road they are on.

    Feb 15th, 2014 - 06:46 pm - Link - Report abuse 0
  • CabezaDura2

    68.

    MST has being going on for quite some time... I don’t even know if they are real peasants or just another communist party.

    Brazil is a big boy in the region; it can easily develop in its own borders while playing positively outside them at the same time, that considering it was run by a good leadership.

    Traditionally Brazil and Argentina competed for regional supremacy and influence counterbalancing with the US when one was weaker than the other.
    Now the US has retreated, the Chinese & Mexicans want to come in and Argentina is in a record decline so it can’t possibly challenge Brazil's influence any longer. It’s kind of now or never for Brazil.

    Feb 15th, 2014 - 06:59 pm - Link - Report abuse 0
  • yankeeboy

    The USA has retreated? Where exactly have we retreated? We have very strong relations with Chile, Peru, Columbia, Paraguay, Mexico, Costa Rica, El Salvador, Belize and Panama. Which is most of LA. The only ones we don't care about are Alba and MercoSur, all the failed nations that we will ignore until they get reasonable governments.
    This fallacy of a waning USA you keep bringing up is a figment of your imagination and some Rg brainwashing.

    Feb 15th, 2014 - 07:16 pm - Link - Report abuse 0
  • CabezaDura2

    LOL dickhead…Even your own diplomats and experts have stressed the decline of American influence in the region. And the complete neglect of the US State Department. Just listen to what Eric Farnsworth says

    http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=5facyLrkzJY

    You somehow think that the PA is a American invention,.... it is not, it’s a Mexican spearhead into Latam to counter Brazil's influence. They may want to do business with the US but it doesn’t mean to say you will be pulling any strings like you used to.

    The fact is the US lost a key ally in the region when Argentina collapsed in 2001 and if Menem got re elected in 2003 history would look very different in the last decade.

    Feb 15th, 2014 - 07:27 pm - Link - Report abuse 0
  • ChrisR

    @ 71 CabezaDura2

    We can all go on about the what-ifs and it will get us nowhere: the world is where it is and has to be fixed in that context.

    If you are correct about the 50,000 Cuban agents in the country then that is a very serious problem on its own and will be difficult for any budding respectable government to tackle at day one given the guilt that the Castro twats have about effectively killing Chavez with their incompetent doctors.

    The more I read and the video that ilsen liked to (thank you ilsen) the more I can see it will come to a bloody civil war with the bus driver the victor, if not the winner. He must be mad to keep going like this and as for Pepe and TMBOA they deserve to be in the front line when the war comes, not that that will happen.

    “Free Energy” Stevie

    I know you check this site from your safe RSV in the North Sea, what do you think about this successor to Chavez? He really bollocks it up didn’t he, but I bet you are still “Chavez now”, eh Stevie in wonderland?

    Feb 15th, 2014 - 07:46 pm - Link - Report abuse 0
  • CabezaDura2

    I’m not going into what-ifs, I’m stressing a point that American decline in the region become not only with the collapse of 2001 but also with the rise of Chavez and Brazils economic growth.

    Chavez was a useful tool of Lula Da Silva to oust the US from the Americas. Brazil keept the image of moderate while it takes over the influence after the Americans have gone.

    That was more or less the trend last decade.
    I presume this decade we will see the Mercosur block and Alba collapse while Mexico and China penetrate into South America, unless Brazil presents a new leadership in its block

    Feb 15th, 2014 - 08:01 pm - Link - Report abuse 0
  • yankeeboy

    CD, Stick to chatting about Argentina you are out of your depth whenever you delve into other matters.
    The USA plays the long game, something Rgs are unfamiliar with, something you'll never understand or appreciate.
    Whether it takes a decade or a generation or four the USA will still be here we will still be powerful we will still wield tremendous influence where and when we want.
    Whatever you want to believe is as inconsequential as your country.
    Nobody cares what a maid thinks.

    Feb 15th, 2014 - 08:02 pm - Link - Report abuse 0
  • CabezaDura2

    Well you know im pretty tired of your bigotry, dis honesty and arrogance

    I don’t care what you think either, you are just a good for nothing humpty dumpty realtor with no education nor understanding of the world.

    You don’t know history, you don’t understand politics, you don’t understand geopolitics, you don’t even know basic chemistry, you don’t even have common sense.

    And I’m remitting to my very well informed and researched opinions and understanding of the situation (Which you don’t have)

    The US is no longer a assertive power as it once was, You are in political decline everywhere. You can’t bare to recognize it frankly isn't my problem…
    Now don’t reply any longer to my opinions if you don’t like them… There is no point in replying to what I express and when you get beaten in a debate you claim as you always do
    “I don’t care what you think”,
    “you are too Young”
    “ smartest monkey of the Zoo”
    “you live in the a*hill of nowhere”

    You are just too impotent and crass to discuss with

    Feb 15th, 2014 - 08:15 pm - Link - Report abuse 0
  • Paragon

    Cabeza Dura, Some very good points, Re: Brazil, Mexico and USA, geopolitics, and yes have also noticed the bigotry and arrogance on here, Your posts are very good.

    Feb 15th, 2014 - 08:39 pm - Link - Report abuse 0
  • CabezaDura2

    76 ) Paragon

    Thanks, much appreciated.

    Feb 15th, 2014 - 08:46 pm - Link - Report abuse 0
  • toooldtodieyoung

    75 CabezaDura2

    “The US is no longer a assertive power as it once was”

    It is. The US is still one of the only countries still capable of projecting it's power across the globe.

    The UK can do it ( to a Lesser extent ) but the in joke motto of the US Central Command ( CENTCOM ) is “Firest, fastest, mostest”

    Just because Obama is not so quick to deploy the military to solve issues in the world, it does not mean that the US is in anyway less capable.

    Obama, is a talker. He seems to be anxious to for the US to take a back seat in world affairs and let the regional players sort themselves out.

    But you should not inactivity with a decline in power.

    Feb 15th, 2014 - 09:28 pm - Link - Report abuse 0
  • CabezaDura2

    78
    Yes, but that is completely different thing to the use of soft power i.e the use political and economical influence to influence matters overseas is what Im refering to. Despite the American massive military power its very bad in politics .
    The US is not getting much soft power for what it is paying for really worth.

    Putin outplayed them brilliantly half a year ago. They didn’t hand over Snowden. And the Russians have just humiliated the Americans yet again with the Victoria Nuland gaffe…(they leaked it)

    And frankly people in the west are sick and tired of foreign conflicts, as your own parliament has proven backing down from the Syrian strikes.

    This is the other prime reasons I think it’s going to be even more unlikely to see more involvement abroad in the future. The US will look towards itself while other regional powers consolidate and others miss their chance

    Feb 15th, 2014 - 09:55 pm - Link - Report abuse 0
  • yankeeboy

    79. My maid tells me the same thing over and over.
    I can't understand why she cleans houses when she is clearly so brilliant.

    Feb 15th, 2014 - 10:13 pm - Link - Report abuse 0
  • toooldtodieyoung

    80 yankeeboy

    Maybe your maid ALSO cleans houses...........................

    Feb 15th, 2014 - 10:47 pm - Link - Report abuse 0
  • Squeaky

    Think about this: if top down doesn't work, and it don't start reforming all the stupid little regressive laws, one at a time: surely to God, the higher up will start to understand the new reality: I had $600 USD shipped here from LLBean, the taxes were more than the value of the shipment.
    You should have seen the correspondence from the lady in LLBean: she reamed everybody a new asshole. I got my stuff in Canada, free, took it all apart and brought it in my baggage. The system makes everybody a criminal. I walked through downtown Bs. As. with 2 ex -Mossad killers with $50 K, both had 2 Glocks and permission to use.same. I could walk down any street in my country, or in Switzerland without any fear. Lamentable todos

    Feb 16th, 2014 - 12:08 am - Link - Report abuse 0
  • CabezaDura2

    82
    Nobody told you Argentina is a third world country before coming here??

    Feb 16th, 2014 - 12:46 am - Link - Report abuse 0
  • Paragon

    Cabeza Dura, american political projection has been going down hill for years, funny how the immediate conclusión was that you meant military power, What that has got to do with the word “assertive ” your guess is as good as mine Could'nt stop laughing after your last comment

    Feb 16th, 2014 - 02:31 am - Link - Report abuse 0
  • Squeaky

    Sadly, in my 9 years here, the country has gone steadily down hill! I spent some time in Zimbabwe, and witnessed that 'death spiral“ It saddens me to think how badly off the rails, nice places can go. And reading the news, in both languages harkens back to my youth and ”Mad Magazine”

    Feb 16th, 2014 - 10:00 am - Link - Report abuse 0
  • ChrisR

    @ 85 Squeaky
    “Mad Magazine”

    How that takes me back to when I was 12 or so. Some really clever intellects wrote that but at my age I had to think a little harder to get the real intent. Good training for commercial life though and reading about the argies.

    I suspect it failed because the later generation yanks thought it was just a comic. Shame really.

    Feb 16th, 2014 - 10:48 am - Link - Report abuse 0
  • yankeeboy

    I've said for a long time Venezuela is Argentina's immediate future.
    CFK must know this, our Rgidiot trolls must know this, it has been obvious to me for a very very long time.

    “Nothing works. There are lines to buy everything. Prices have gone through the roof. You can’t go out at night for fear of getting shot.

    http://www.thedailybeast.com/articles/2014/02/16/is-this-the-end-of-hugo-chavez-s-venezuela.html

    Feb 16th, 2014 - 11:32 am - Link - Report abuse 0
  • pisco

    Bolivia and Ecuador are compardres of this fake Bolivarian revolution. And presently, Peru's President Humala is doing everything possible to force democratic Peru to join that team.

    “My sincere hope is that a stake is driven through Bolivarian Socialism when both Venezuela and Argentina gov'ts collapse.” from 53-yankeeboy. So well put. That would be Peru's salvation.

    Today the opposition in Peru is attempting to force Humala to react to the chaos promoted by Maduro in Venezuela. So where is Brazil?

    South America needs Brazil to stand up and finally declare that they are against human rights violations, coming from any political direction. Freedom Loving World Opinion must use Brazil's World Cup to hammer home the atrocites occurring in its neighbor. Yes, the World Cup, a non-political event, must be violated to save Venezuelan's and the rest of South America. This is the leverage, that if applied correctly, will force Brazil to do the correct thing. South America must be saved, from this Chavista MONSTROSITY.

    Feb 16th, 2014 - 01:56 pm - Link - Report abuse 0
  • ilsen

    @ 87 Thanks Yankeeboy for the excellent link.

    You and others maybe interested to know that the author of the article, Juan Nagel, is the Editor of http://caracaschronicles.com/
    an excellent site with many intelligently-written quality articles.
    He also writes frequently for http://caracaschronicles.com/
    (Transitions is the group blog of the Democracy Lab channel, a collaboration between Foreign Policy and the Legatum Institute.)

    @88 pisco. I understand where you 'are coming from' on this but Dilma and gang are still too caught-up in their left-wing ideological mess to be inclined to interfere in Venezuala. Brazil will do nothing. Accept it.
    I hope Peru can continue to build closer ties with Chile and the Pacific Alliance. That is the only road to prosperity and stability that I can see for them at the moment. Stay away from ALBA and the lure of cheap oil from VZLA, contolled from Cuba....

    Feb 16th, 2014 - 02:33 pm - Link - Report abuse 0
  • pisco

    @89 Yes Ilsen, if Peru develops closer ties with Chile and remains strongly active in the Pacific Alliance, there is hope.

    But Peruvian democracy must still survive the Humala Presidency. This man, like his deceased friend Chavez, is a past coup attempt maker. Presently he has placed his buddies, mostly from his army class, into strategic military positions.

    So Ilsen, my head tells me that you are correct, when stating that Brazil will never do the decent thing. But my heart, though has to believe that Brazilians, somehow, someway cannot be so cruel as to allow this barbarianism to last.

    Feb 16th, 2014 - 05:03 pm - Link - Report abuse 0
  • Troy Tempest

    85,86 “Mad Magazine”

    Great political and social satire. I had a subscription to it, around 1970 - 72

    Feb 16th, 2014 - 05:06 pm - Link - Report abuse 0
  • ilsen

    @ pisco, I will get back to you in a moment…
    just to return to the article above, the Argentine Gov states;
    ”notes the clear efforts of destabilization that confront institutional order in our brother nation”
    Clear efforts? prove it! Other than the population taking to the streets, there is no concerted effort by 'corporations etc' to bring down the Gov. They are too busy trying to get the hell out of there!

    @90 pisco.
    Although I obtained, admittedly some years ago, a First Class Degree from the University Of Essex (UK) Latin American Studies, and spent 2 years with Universidad de Los Andes Merida, (Vnzla), studying Latin American Politics, I must admit I have not kept up-to-date on the Peruvian situation as much as I would have liked, due to business and family commitments in Vnzla & UK.

    However, I can state, with certainty, that the only way the Chavistas have kept the military quiet is by giving them Political appointments.
    How many military in Government now? The truth is out there! So many ex-military growing fat and rich in Government, whilst maintaining their old contacts….
    Also, some background, please see;
    http://caracaschronicles.com/2013/08/06/the-military-diversifies-its-portfolio/
    http://caracaschronicles.com/2013/08/06/the-military-diversifies-its-portfolio/
    Unfortunately, in this case Pisco, you can not follow your heart because the current regime in Brazil is following a similar ideological path, Your head is correct. Brazil will stand by and watch this barbarism. Please tell me if you have heard Dilma & Co. condemn such events as this:
    http://caracaschronicles.com/2013/08/06/the-military-diversifies-its-portfolio/
    Brazil is not interested, sadly.

    Feb 16th, 2014 - 07:43 pm - Link - Report abuse 0
  • Tarquin Fin

    90 pisco
    South American countries have always followed a common trend, alternatively going one way or the other in the last 70 years. From military dictatorships to leftist populist pseudo-democratic regimes with some rather short lived periods of reasonable politics in between.
    Sadly, one cycle being an exaggerate reaction to the one preceding it.
    Where does it end?
    Probably when we stop supporting politicians that exploit extreme nationalistic feelings by tapping into the frustrations from one or the other side.

    Feb 16th, 2014 - 08:16 pm - Link - Report abuse 0
  • ilsen

    @93 TF, you obviously have a good understanding of the political psyche in Lat Am.

    No matter left or right the 'caudillo' triumphs over the deliberately infantalised voting underclass (when they are permitted to vote!)...
    Continuing your point, there has also been the inverse, ie. Right-wing populists amd left-wing military regimes! Where will it end? nobody knows...
    And all for a continent so rich in resources it should (on paper) have everything to gain and nothing to lose...

    Shame, shame, shame.

    Feb 16th, 2014 - 08:26 pm - Link - Report abuse 0
  • Tarquin Fin

    Yes ilsen, the inverse is also true. Thanks for pointing that out.
    Either way, group identity is exploited to the max like in a football match.

    Feb 16th, 2014 - 08:38 pm - Link - Report abuse 0
  • ilsen

    @95 TF hmm... good analogy, if you mean that the 'masses' will cheer for one group over another, whose success will bring them momentary satisfication and 'bragging-tights' over another, yet will have absolutely no effect ontheir daily struggle to feed their families, enjoy a lawful and democratic and prosperous existence... yup, good analogy.
    Geez.. I have such a love/hate relationship with LatAm!! Enough to re-state what I posted earlier-
    for a continent so rich in resources it should (on paper) have everything to gain and nothing to lose...

    Shame, shame, shame.

    Feb 16th, 2014 - 10:03 pm - Link - Report abuse 0
  • Squeaky

    I'm a Canadian lawyer by training; Canada does not have a true “chapter 11” whereby, is clearly incapable of honouring it' obligations: the debtor realizes same and a group of “bean-counters” descends on the debtor nation and says' oy” ; you cannot print currency anymore (aka Dr . Mugabe) The accountants are empowered to tell every hanger -on to fuck off; and if a failed state subjected itself to this tough scrutiny, perhaps some future would exist. My family built the subways, docks and hydroelectric to power up both Rio and Bs. As.. We have 120 years of experience here, and this used to be a good place for business. Google “Brasilian Light and Traction, to see who put this benighted place on the map. It was #7 in the world in the day and now clocks in at 157. How proud the inventors of the new ”model' must be

    Feb 16th, 2014 - 10:14 pm - Link - Report abuse 0
  • ilsen

    @ 97 Squeaky. Interesting stuff on Brasilian Light and Traction, thank you. These past efforts are so quicky forgotton. You should be proud of your heritage!

    However, you are, sadly, (as in the ALBA countries and also Brazil/Argentina), witnessing the effects of the so-called 'Bolivarian Revolution'.
    Which in my opinion besmirches the name of a once great man who freed slaves, emancipated the indigenous and liberated much of Latin America from despots and rule by caudillos!

    Bolivar’s most famous quote is from 1830, regarding ‘Latin’ America, as he surveyed the wreckage of his dream. As self-assessments go, it is not very positive:

    ‘I have ruled for 20 years and from these I have gained only a few certainties:
    [Latin] America is ungovernable, for us;
    Those who serve a revolution plough the sea;
    The only thing one can do in [Latin] America is emigrate;
    This country will fall inevitably into the hands of the unbridled masses and then pass almost imperceptibly into the hands of petty tyrants, of all colours and races;
    Once we have been devoured by every crime and extinguished by utter ferocity, the Europeans will not even regard us as worth conquering;
    If it were possible for any part of the world to revert to primitive chaos, it would be [Latin] America in its final hour.’
    See; John Lynch, Simon Bolivar: A Life (Yale University Press, 2006)
    A very well-respected academic (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/John_Lynch_(historian)) who has written many excellent, globally-respected texts on Latin America.

    Yes, Trolls, my sources are impeccable, and I hope, of interest to others…

    ahh... the echoes of History, to understand our present, we must know the past, in order to plan for the future....

    How I wish, oh how I wish...

    Feb 16th, 2014 - 11:00 pm - Link - Report abuse 0
  • Tarquin Fin

    @ ilsen
    Isn't it a paradox that the two countries that produced the leaders of the South. Am independence movement are now at the brink of collapse?

    Feb 16th, 2014 - 11:48 pm - Link - Report abuse 0
  • ilsen

    @ TF
    paradox or irony? more of a tragedy unfortunately...
    Would make an excellent tragi-comedic opera if the truth wasn't so bitter...
    just my thoughts...

    Although I must say the posters on this thread seem better than the endless circular arguments that take place on the Argentine/Falklands threads.
    Any interesting links on the situation in Venezuela always welcome.
    Here are a few that may be of interest;
    http://dolartoday.com/
    http://dolartoday.com/
    http://dolartoday.com/
    http://dolartoday.com/
    http://dolartoday.com/
    http://dolartoday.com/
    http://dolartoday.com/
    Fact: The current, note ‘current’, regime is constantly trying to block some/all of these legitimate websites by threatening the ISPs, has attempted to block Twitter during recent protests and ordered Colombian TV News (NTN24) channel off the air also.
    http://dolartoday.com/
    http://dolartoday.com/
    Welcome to the ‘Counter - Revolution’ people…… It might not be televised, but it will be on YouTube!
    Enjoy!
    Oh and the absolutely most importatt one which I insist you click on is;
    http://dolartoday.com/
    5 mins well spent, trust me!

    Feb 17th, 2014 - 12:56 am - Link - Report abuse 0
  • pisco

    @ilsen @TF

    Damn! I was hoping that pressure could be applied to Brazil during the World Cup. But I understand the reality now: 'Dilma and Co.' could care less and that Maduro is supposed to have the situation under control by then.

    Ilsen and TF, no one should ever be angry at the sender when they are right on.

    Feb 17th, 2014 - 02:05 am - Link - Report abuse 0
  • ilsen

    @ 101 Pisco
    No powerful state such as US/China/Russia or groups such as the EU, for example, has any interest in pressurising Brazil on behalf on Venezuela. Sad but true. They are simply interested in business, and supporting their own citizens and economies (some may argue, ”and why not?). However I do not wish to over complicate this. With the US becoming energy self-sufficient, and other global developments involving shale-gas and eco-energy resources no-one really gives a sh*t about VZ anymore. Sad, but true. They import 90% of their consumer goods, and have the most over-valued currency in the world.
    So, what does this truly mean?
    There is no massive new consumer market to invest in (like China)... it is already flooded with cheap Chinese imports.
    Their currency is worthless. So why trade? Any profit is value-less in the global market.
    They don't pay their bills (currently owing US$3 billion to airlines alone), just check some other threads for this.
    Internal price-fixing and centralised-control of goods - therefore no FDI.
    Horrrendous Black-market on the US$, currently trading at 86.88 against the official rate of 6.3, yes, that is 13.8 x 1usd on the street....
    Do I care? I have family there.......
    Please never mistake my anger with the regime for my love for the country.
    And no, I never get angry with some one who posts something that I disagree with, just with those that resort to personal insults because they have nothing to say.
    Please speak freely, and loudly!!!!!!!!!
    Back on topic, there is no South American unity, no matter Mercosur, ALBA or CELAC, all just taliking shops. The only positive, in my opinion is the PA. I truly hope it succeeds and that others will, eventually, follow...

    Feb 17th, 2014 - 02:32 am - Link - Report abuse 0
  • Squeaky

    I read this am. that another 3 US diplomats have been expelled from Chavez' paradise. Wonder , now that I think that is 8 since Sept., if a small commemorative medal should not be struck, and given out to people who had to suffer the indignity of a really bad foreign posting?

    Feb 17th, 2014 - 10:30 am - Link - Report abuse 0
  • Tarquin Fin

    101 pisco
    I wasn't even close to getting angry with you because you are feeling that Humala will follow on Maduro's steps.
    I feel your pain. Peru can still do something before that happens. Uruguay is also at a point in which their actions can save them from being dragged into madness. Argentina is lost at least for two more years.
    I know I might start to get attacked by some of the posters here, but despite some of the anti-Chilean feelings in the contingent, I think that Chile gets it. I'm not saying that Chile is perfect but it's institutions seem to be getting stronger and leaders, while assertive, are not trying to divide the country up.

    Feb 17th, 2014 - 05:28 pm - Link - Report abuse 0
  • Squeaky

    Tarquin Fin: Hello.
    There was a fine article in the WSJ about 2 weeks back, showing South America. A small slice of the Pacific Coast was highlighted in green and said “open for business”. down to the southern end of Chile.The rest of the continent was in red, and said “closed for business”, with a 100 reasons why. It should be easy to find. Cheers

    Feb 17th, 2014 - 11:33 pm - Link - Report abuse 0
  • Rick from Maryland

    Any nation whose President condemns “speculation” by private business and private financial institutions is doomed. Most of the world calls it investment. Without it, no new private business will startup, and no growth in current private business will happen.

    And if you believe that public taxes used to start, grow and own businesses is NOT speculation, then your doubly screwed... Governments are the WORST “speculators”... well, unless you happen to be the priveledged few taking home all that public “investment”.

    Feb 18th, 2014 - 10:06 pm - Link - Report abuse 0
  • Squeaky

    Today, on CNN was an excellent piece on the economies problems: In the Vancouver Sun was a good piece on civil disobedience: I'm not a Crystal Ball gazer, but methinks it bodes unwell for the other followers of this godforsaken model!
    My bet is the Argy peso is 16 by mid March; I get 13 all day and had an offer of 15 (with an explanation) that it was dirty money. My home, Canada, has one dollar: it makes it easy to do business

    Feb 19th, 2014 - 12:26 am - Link - Report abuse 0
  • ilsen

    CNN were cenesored in the most dramatic way; armed thugs took their camaeras!
    http://www.mediaite.com/tv/cnn-reporter-venezuelan-cops-confiscated-our-equipment-at-gunpoint/
    Finally it is about the ‘Cubanisation’ of the country.
    The people know that they are getting screwed. However, currently, the opposition is far to disorganized to do anything but to encourage the population to protest in the streets. Nothing more. However, across the world we have seen before, this can lead to coherent opposition. I hope this will be the case here, but for now it is just a sad mess of deeply unhappy people and a failing government.
    I will post more about the Cubanisation of the government and why I believe the military will not turn on the people. I do not think the Army support Maduro anymore
    More soon!
    Why is MercoPress not reporting on Censorship in Venezeula?
    MercoPress, you could be next! For Evil to prosper it only requires good men to remain silent! You could be next if you do not speak now!
    San Cristobal - VZLA
    Last night, the authorities shut down internet service to the whole city, which explains why so few YouTube videos have emerged from San Cristóbal, whereas we have seen so many from Merida and other smaller cities, not just Caracas. Thousands of National Guard troops were sent out into San Cristóbal at around around 12:40 last night, and at 1:00 a.m. Internet service was shut down for the whole city and its surrounding areas. Then the nightly running battles started, with unarmed kids facing off against the National Guard and their paramilitary companions both – a ludicrously uneven fight where the people claiming the right to protest get called fascists by a government using grotesquely disproportionate force to quash them.

    Feb 21st, 2014 - 01:52 am - Link - Report abuse 0
  • Captain Poppy

    They've reached even beyond censorship. They threatened and are on the verge of expelling CNN out of the country. I thought this was ludicrous but then last week they did that to a Colombian new station. This guy is absolutely MAD.......stark, raving mad. I do not understand how anyone in there right mind can support the Bus. I hope the people there can make things right before it's another Cuba.

    Feb 21st, 2014 - 09:55 am - Link - Report abuse 0

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