Politics

Thursday, April 17th 2008 - 21:00 UTC
Paraguayan election, another energy challenge for Brazil

Energy and energy security has snowballed as an issue in the last leg of the Paraguayan presidential election of next Sunday, April 20. The two heavy weight neighbors are highly dependent on Paraguayan energy resources and all Paraguayan leading candidates have promised a review of the contracts “which are most unfair for our country”.
Tuesday, April 15th 2008 - 21:00 UTC
Hello Miami: Long lines in Cuba for cellular phones

Hundreds of Cubans queued for blocks outside phone stores on Monday to sign up for cellular phone service for the first time. Contracts cost about 120 US dollars and do not include a phone or credit to make and receive calls.
Tuesday, April 15th 2008 - 21:00 UTC
“S. America beefing up forces, but is not in arms race”

South America has a right to strengthen its armed forces but is not in an arms race, Brazil's defense minister pointed out in Venezuela. Nelson Jobim who is in the first leg of a continental visit to discuss a planned South American security council said the region needed military power to strengthen its presence on the world stage.
Monday, April 14th 2008 - 21:00 UTC
Former bishop retains lead in Paraguay's presidential race

With five days for next Sunday's Paraguay's presidential election former Catholic Bishop Fernando Lugo is still the front-runner but his lead over rival candidates has narrowed, according to a public opinion poll published on Ultima Hora Sunday's edition.
Sunday, April 13th 2008 - 21:00 UTC
Chavez calls FARC to release civilians and stop kidnapping

Venezuelan President Hugo Chavez confirmed he was working for the release of a third group of hostages held by the Colombian guerrilla group FARC, including Ingrid Betancourt and urged the rebels to free all civilian hostages.
Saturday, April 12th 2008 - 21:00 UTC
Buenos Aires gives the Olympic flame a rest and new spirit

The Olympic flame relay through Buenos Aires City on Friday was cheered by thousands of jubilant Argentines who turned out to the streets in support of the Beijing Olympic Games to be held next August in China.

Tennis Hall of Fame Gabriela Sabatini, Gaby, running down a long carpet into the hall of an equestrian club, where she ignited a flame in a giant metal bowl gave the final touch to a brilliant event.
Saturday, April 12th 2008 - 21:00 UTC
Washington asks Argentina for help with Venezuela

The top US diplomat for Latin America signaled a thaw in relations with Argentina during his brief 48 hours visit to Buenos Aires where he met with President Cristina Fernandez de Kirchner and main officials from her administration. Before returning to Washington he described relations as “excellent”.
Friday, April 11th 2008 - 21:00 UTC
Tight security for Olympic torch relay in Buenos Aires

The Olympic torch arrived Thursday afternoon to Argentina and on Friday will be relayed thirteen kilometers through downtown Buenos Aires with a massive display of security forces to ensure there's no repeat of the anti China incidents that have occurred in Europe and United States.
Friday, April 11th 2008 - 21:00 UTC
Falkland Islands: Weekly Penguin News Update

Headlines: 'He's behind you!'; Blind Dave's on target for London; Local companies object to loligo fee rise; Steady cruise ship rise continues; FPV Protegat on the way.
Friday, April 11th 2008 - 21:00 UTC
Brazil is promoting South American Defence Council

Brazil's Minister of Defence Nelson Jobim announced visits to neighboring countries to promote the Brazilian initiative for a South American Defence Council. Addressing the Defence and Foreign Affairs committees of the Brazilian Congress Mr. Jobim said next Monday he would be traveling to Venezuela, Surinam and Guyana the first leg of the regional tour.