Two different summits took place simultaneously in Mar Del Plata, Argentina, in the last couple of days. One, the Summit of the Americas was a staid meeting of heads of states, mulling over the means and methods of promoting free market capitalism throughout the hemisphere. There was no agreement on much of anything because unlike the G-8 summit of uniformly prosperous nations, here the participants are not on an even economic playing field. Matters are further complicated by the fact that the prosperous USA is widely viewed as uncaring towards Latin America, interested only in free trade agreements to benefit US businesses and snubbing its southern neighbors if their democratically elected governments do not pliantly toe the American line, even against the interests of their own citizenry. The presence of Hugo Chavez of Venezuela at the summit was a major "fly in the ointment" as described by a US official. Chavez is eyed with suspicion by many Latin American leaders. But with his socialist policies and oil wealth benefiting poor Venezuelans, his politics and image are gaining popularity with the average citizens of Latin America.
While the Summit of the Americas was under way behind closed doors, Argentinians took to the streets and filled a stadium to hold the "People's Summit", a sometimes lively and often violent rag tag event, to protest the agenda of free trade and market capitalism at the official forum. Chavez was the guest of honor at the "counter" summit along with the aging and flamboyant soccer star, Diego Maradona. Chavez, who calls George Bush, "Mr. Danger", spoke with great gusto for nearly two hours, bashing Bush, his policies and promoting his own socialist vision for South America.
At the time of this writing, it is reported that the official summit ended in a deadlock over when and how the FTAA should go into effect.
Some notable quotes from the participants of both summits:
"I'm against everything that Bush says." Diego Maradona, Argentinian soccer star
"Latin America is pregnant with socialism. Now, let's all push together so this baby can be born." Hugo Chavez, President of Venezuela
"... it's a serious investigation, and we take it seriously, and we're cooperating to the extent that the special prosecutor wants us to cooperate." President George Bush, who was asked more questions about the CIA leak probe than about his plans for the FTAA
"For 500 pesos, they will privatize the sea." Ariel Federico, street poet
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