Brazzil

Since 1989 Trying to Understand Brazil

Home

----------

Brazilian Eyelash Enhancer & Conditioner Makeup

----------

Get Me Earrings

----------

Buy Me Handbags

----------

Find Me Diamond

----------

Wholesale Clothing On Sammydress.com

----------

Brautkleider 2013

----------

Online shopping at Tmart.com and Free Shipping

----------

Wholesale Brazilian Hair Extensions on DHgate.com

----------

Global Online shopping with free shipping at Handgiftbox

----------

Search

Custom Search
Members : 22767
Content : 3832
Content View Hits : 33083627

Who's Online

We have 596 guests online



While China Rises the US Falls in Brazil and Latin America PDF Print E-mail
2005 - June 2005
Written by Ricardo C. Amaral   
Thursday, 02 June 2005 11:28

{mosimage}On May 23, 2005 the Al-Hayat newspaper from Beirut, Lebanon had an interesting article regarding the Latin American-Arab Summit in Brazil. The article was written by Mr. Ali Mohsen Hamid - Ambassador, Head of the Arab League bureau in the UK.

Mr. Hamid said: "...Brazil is not far from the US and still does not fear it. Ever since Brazil recuperated its independent national decision and regained its sovereignty under President Lula da Silva's mandate, it is achieving great strides in all realms.

"In the economic and trade sector, Brazil is considered to be one of the top economic giants among southern countries, with annual exports exceeding US$ 100 billion. Brazil is also a contender for a permanent membership at the UN Security Council; a seat which the Arab World with its 300 million citizens is unable to gain." 

The Security Council currently has 5 permanent and 10 rotating members. Five of the rotating members are elected each January 1st by the General Assembly to serve two-year terms, and they are chosen from several regional groups.

Several weeks ago, Secretary-General Kofi Annan proposed expanding the permanent membership of the Security Council beyond the 5 members: Russia, Great Britain, United States, France and China to include world powers that have emerged over the last 50 years.

Among the most talked-about candidates are Brazil, India, Germany and Japan. The proposals for reform at the UN are under preliminary discussion.

The Qatari government has asked various countries to help it win a rotating seat on the UN's Security Council. Qatar's candidacy is for the 2-year term 2006-2007, and Qatar has a very good chance of winning the Security Council's membership due to the support of Asian and other nations of the world. 

The government of Qatar under the leadership of Emir His Highness Sheikh Hamad Bin Khalifa Al-Thani has earned credibility and respect from other nations worldwide. Qatar deserves this opportunity and the support of other nations, because of its rising influence and leadership in the Arab world.

Al-Jazeera Satellite Channel, which is owned by the state of Qatar, has reported that 15 years ago Qatar decided to nominate itself to occupy the 2-year term Asian seat for period 2006-2007; which is the same seat of Arabs currently occupied by Algeria according to a cordial agreement between Asian and African continents.

The Arab-South American Summit - May 2005

The Brazilian media reported that the Brazilian government refused the US request to attend the summit, to make sure that the South American and Arab countries could discuss their issues freely, without American intervention. After the rejection American pressure was applied on many Arab leaders to boycott the summit in Brazil.

The United States is becoming aware of its declining influence in South America, and they know that an Arab-South American countries political and economic cooperation could further undercut the US international influence.

The US government was also worried because of some of the issues that might be discussed at the summit, and many of these issues would be at odds with U.S. policy ranging from the war in Iraq to terrorism.

Brazilian President Luiz Inácio Lula da Silva said to the heads of state and foreign ministers participating in the event: "We are facing a historic opportunity to build the foundation for a bridge of solid cooperation between South America and the Arab world."

The meeting became a great success and from the list of nations invited to participate in the Arab-South American Summit, 15 heads of state attended the event including 7 of 22 Arab heads of state, and 8 of 12 South American leaders, and the other remaining countries were represented by their foreign ministers. 

Some Arab leaders gave in to the American pressure and they missed this golden opportunity in Brazil to conduct direct dialogue and discuss trade, foreign-policy and also to establish a common ground between the Arab and the South American countries.

The Emir of Qatar

Among the attending Arab heads of state, one in particular deserve's a special mention and recognition for his foresight and understanding of the importance of this first summit.

The Emir of Qatar, His Highness Sheikh Hamad Bin Khalifa Al-Thani, a rising influential leader of the Arab world, realized the potential economic benefits that can be achieved from a strong trade and investments relationship between Qatar and Brazil.

Today, Qatar's economy is the fastest growing economy in the Arab world. Its citizens are also the region's wealthiest, with per capita income of $40,000.

In the last few years, high-energy prices for oil and gas has fuelled an economic boom that led Qatar's economy to achieve an outstanding growth rate of 20 percent per year.

Increasing global demand for oil and gas should help the Qatari economy to sustain its high growth rate without overheating the economy in the coming years. 

On May 22, 2005 Reuters reported that Qatar's Minister of Economy and Commerce, HE Sheikh Mohamed bin Ahmed bin Jassim al-Thani, announced that the Qatari government is planning to spend US$ 100 - US$ 120 billion in projects in Qatar within the next five to eight years.

He also said that the investment plan calls for: "US$70 billion to go into the hydrocarbons industry and the rest in infrastructure projects."

Brazil and Iraq

In the past, Brazil had a great business relationship with Iraq, and during the years 1976 to 1990 Iraq became one of the major importers of Brazilian products and services.

Brazil exported over US$ 30 billion dollars of goods and services to Iraq during that period, a volume of business larger than the business that Brazil had individually with any European country.

Iraq was the ideal partner for Brazil at that time, and the Brazilian Ambassador Paulo Tarso Flecha de Lima had been the great architect of this partnership when he lead various commercial trade missions to Baghdad.

The trading with Iraq is the only example we have of Brazil having a strong and close business relationship with one of the petroleum producing countries of the Middle East.

Brazil bought a lot of oil from Iraq under a special agreement, and Iraq bought from Brazil automobiles, chicken, beef and pork products, tractors, coffee, sugar, military armament, and Brazilian construction companies built some of the most important infrastructure projects in Iraq.

The Brazilian construction company Mendes Júnior employed over 30,000 people in Iraq over the years, and among its most important projects they built the Baghdad-Akashat railroad, a major expressway and an irrigation system at the Tiger and Euphrates rivers. 

During these fourteen years the Brazilian government had very close ties with the Iraqi government of Saddam Hussein. Brazil always had some kind of foreign exchange crisis happening, and the Iraqi government was the only Middle East government willing to trade with Brazil at that time.

In 1990, Brazil had to accept the United Nations economic embargo against Iraq, but Brazil continued trading with Iraq over the following years under the "United Nations - Oil for Food" program.

For Brazil and Qatar the Future is Now

The timing of the Arab South American Summit in Brazil was perfect, since it was followed by this major Qatari government infrastructure investment plan announcement. 

And the current Qatari infrastructure development plan opens the door for Brazilian companies because they have extensive and actual prior experience from the time when they helped Iraq with similar infrastructure development projects.

The new Qatar and Brazil business relationship could signal to the world not only that the seeds planted at the first Arab-South American Summit in Brazil, already started producing positive economic results, but also would highlight the new partnership between a rising leader in the Arab world - Qatar - with the leader of South America and rising world economic power - Brazil.

On May 11, 2005, The Daily Star published an article saying: "It's a deal: South American-Arab summit results in free-trade negotiations" - Businessmen describe the two regions as being highly complementary.

The article also said: "As leaders from South America and the Arab world rounded up meetings in the Brazilian capital during a two-day summit to boost political and economic ties, many business executives on the sidelines were trying to strike deals between two regions they said were highly complementary.

"Their efforts at a parallel investors conference got a boost when ministers announced negotiations on a free-trade area between six Arab Gulf nations, many of them rich in oil, and a South American economic bloc that includes the continent's two largest economies.

"The trade zone would link nations of the Gulf Cooperation Council - Saudi Arabia, the United Arab Emirates, Oman, Bahrain, Kuwait and Qatar - with the Mercosur bloc, whose full-fledged members are Argentina, Brazil, Paraguay and Uruguay."

US Influence Declining in South America

The Arab-South America Summit offered to the Arabs commercial alternatives not available before, which will reduce the European and American hegemony in the Arab world.

The Arab Summit laid the foundations to further reduce the gap between the Arab world and South America, an area of the world that is becoming one of the major industrial and commercial trading blocs in the world. 

On January 26, 2005 The Financial Times of London had an interesting editorial - "How America became the world's dispensable nation." 

That Financial Times article started by saying: "In a second inaugural address tinged with evangelical zeal, George W. Bush declared: "Today, America speaks anew to the peoples of the world." The peoples of the world, however, do not seem to be listening. A new world order is indeed emerging - but its architecture is being drafted in Asia and Europe, at meetings to which Americans have not been invited.

....The US, it turns out, is a dispensable nation. Europe, China, Russia, Latin America and other regions and nations are quietly taking measures whose effect, if not sole purpose, will be to cut America down to size.

Ironically, the US, having won the cold war, is adopting the strategy that led the Soviet Union to lose it."

To further illustrate the United States loss of clout and influence in South America, we just have to look at the results of the latest election of the head of the OAS.

One of US Secretary of State Condoleezza Rice's goals in her trip to Brazil in late April 2005 was to convince President Lula to change his mind and have Brazil vote for the US candidate that would head the Organization of American States (OAS) for the next 5 years. 

One week later, the candidate that Brazil was supporting all along, in opposition to the United States, Mr. Insulza from Chile was the winner. It was the first time in the organizations 60-year history that the candidate supported by Washington did not win.

This particular election sends a clear signal to the world of how fast the United States is losing its influence in South America. At the same time that the US is losing its influence,

China is quickly replacing the United States influence in the Area.

China's Rising Influence

In a very short period of time China is becoming the most important business partner of Brazil. China has been quickly replacing the United States' influence in Brazil - and that is also happening in other South American countries

On May 17, 2005 - The Financial Times of London had another article trying to explain why US influence was declining in South America: "Latin lessons the US faces a loss of leadership."

The article said: "Why have relations turned so sour? Economics is part of the reason. During the late 1980s and 1990s Latin America embraced free market policies and moved enthusiastically into the US orbit. But when reform often failed to produce growth that began to change, with many Latin Americans blaming the US for their problems.

"The failure of the Bush administration to help Argentina when it ran into a disastrous debt crisis at the end of 2001 was particularly damaging to its image in the region. "Whether or not Washington or Wall Street really bear the blame, many Latin Americans believe the US led them down the primrose path but then were simply not interested when times got tough," says Julia Sweig, a Latin America specialist at the New York-based Council on Foreign Relations.

"After a number of South American countries embraced democracy, and many of the economic policies prescribed by Washington including all kinds of privatizations, the result of these changes did not benefit the South American population as expected.

"And South America's less than impressive economic performance over the past 15 years has led to a fresh bout of soul-searching about what kind of economic model is right for the region.

"... In particular, the role of the state - which policymakers were trying to cut back for most of the 1990s - is undergoing a rethink, in part reflecting South America's growing economic relationship with parts of Asia that have achieved much higher rates of growth."

There is another factor that contributed to the current state of affairs in South America. After the collapse of the Soviet Union in 1991, the United States lost its interest regarding South America. 

Some South American countries including Brazil, instead of whining or crying over spilled milk, did something about it, as a capitalist country they started searching around the world for new partners to establish new ties to replace their lost business.

The US decline of influence with Brazil did not happen overnight or because of political reasons; it was as a result of economic reasons as Brazil found new partners.

The Brazilian need to find new markets for its products coincided with the economic explosion that has been happening in the Chinese economy in the last few years. Today, China has an insatiable need for commodities of all kinds to feed its amazing production machine.

A Brazilian Plan for the Future

The international media did give very little coverage at the time, but early in 2004 President Lula of Brazil, started talking with various countries to form the Group of Five (G5); for them to have meetings on a regular basis.

This new G5 group would counterbalance the economic power of the current G6 group. The G6 group more or less represents the past the new G5 group will represent the future.

The original members of the new G5 group will be: Brazil, Russia, India, China, and South Africa. In the last 12 months Brazil has finalized extensive economic agreements with these four countries.

Here is where the Arab Gulf nations such as, Saudi Arabia, the United Arab Emirates, Oman, Bahrain, Kuwait and Qatar enter the picture - they are also a part of the Brazilian strategic international business and economic development plan for the future.

Right now, Brazil is on its way to becoming one of the major countries of the future in terms of international business and economic development. Brazil is in a special position to help Qatar build its planned infrastructure, since Brazil has a large population of Arab descent.

Today there are over 10 million people of Arab descent living in Brazil, and they have made a valuable contribution to the social and cultural development of Brazilian society.

And these Arab/Brazilians will become an asset for Brazil, and once again with the business experience acquired in doing business with Iraq all these years, they will help implement with success these new international business endeavors in Qatar.

Finally, Brazil should give its total support to Qatar regarding its bid for a United Nations seat, and Brazil also should help Qatar secure a wide-scale support from the other countries of South America. 

Qatar can become the first major economic link between Brazil and the Arab Gulf nations. After this first step, we hope to establish a strong friendship between these countries and Brazil, and also the foundations for a new business and economic relations that will be mutually rewarding: for Brazil and for all these Arab countries of the Middle East.

Ricardo C. Amaral is an author and economist. He can be reached at brazilamaral@yahoo.com.



Add this page to your favorite Social Bookmarking websites
Reddit! Del.icio.us! Mixx! Free and Open Source Software News Google! Live! Facebook! StumbleUpon! TwitThis Joomla Free PHP
Comments (92)Add Comment
China rises,America falls
written by Guest, June 02, 2005
It's a good thing that American influence in latin america is declining while china, europe, and asia are rising. The USA has been holding things together for far to long, and it's about time that you slackers pick up a shovel and start doing some work! How about 50 years of America closing it's borders and concentrating on nothing except it's own domestics problems? We could re-invent the automobile, aviation, mass production, agriculture etc. You see, America could care less about waning influence, America needs a break from the rest of you people! America has taken in all the losers from your countries and made them winners! Be careful what you wish for!
Good!
written by Guest, June 02, 2005
No more yankee exploitation! Seal your borders and stay away from us in Brazil!
What\'s new.
written by Guest, June 02, 2005
"It is for the first time in the history of the OAS, established in 1948, that a candidate without the explicit backing of the United States, has been elected for the post. The OAS, especially during the Cold War years, was an important part of the U.S.' geo-strategic plans to keep Latin America under its control. Many in the region viewed the OAS as a modern instrument to implement the infamous Monroe Doctrine, under which the U.S. retained the right to interfere in the affairs of neighbouring countries in the 19th century. "

Changing Lords
written by Guest, June 02, 2005
Hi Guys!

Let's not forget the Americas to the Americans. We must see us as an all.We must stand together to win this new commercial and trade war.
To the severely mental ill that posted t
written by Guest, June 02, 2005
If only the Department of State felt like you... Unfortunately, they don't.
And by the way, how did the US

* supporting dictatorships that killed and tortured innocent men and women during more than one decade

* Violently disrespecting latin american countries sovereignity while shoving neoliberalism down their throats

* Refusing to close bank accounts in America that were used by arab terorists to finance terrorist attacks that killed thounsands Argentina, when after these violent attacks in Buenos Aires, Argentina's government asked America to do so (And now when the attacks happen in America we see them expecting the world's solidarity). That's right, we haven't forgot.

turn us from losers into winners?

And this was just for a quick short list. I could have written a freakin' book.
the first comment
written by Guest, June 02, 2005
.
Ricardo C. Amaral
written by Guest, June 03, 2005

On June 1, 2005 The New York Times had an interesting article regarding South America.

It was a long article on pg. 2 "Opposition to US Makes Chavez a Hero to Many".

Most South Americans do like the American people. They don't like the Bush administration.

As far as I know Bill Clinton was well liked at least in Brazil. But today, the Bush Administration rate so low in the 26 percent level, that even the "IMF" a hated organization in the area has a higher rate than the Bush Administration.

The Bush Administration has done a humongous damage to the rep**ation of the United States around the world.

I live in the USA and I know a lot of outstanding Americans, but for some reason a bunch of idiots end up in Washington making a mess of everything
for everyone.

Basically, you don't have to go too far to find people who hate the Bush Administration; half of the American-people can't stand the clowns that we have in this administration.

.





.
Be careful what you wish for!
written by Guest, June 03, 2005
It's sad what Mr.Bush did to my home state of Texas and he ran up the debt for the ferderal government as well.He has helped the world hate Americans even more than ever.The worst problem is the lobbist or should I say the corrupts congress!(they are there year after year and don't give a f**k about anyone.they just want to get richer and richer).The problem I see is Brasi and all of latin America trusting the Middle East / China/ Russia/Japan etc.. those countries will rip off Brasil in a heart beat! If you look at the world the fastest growing people ARE the Asians.The want world domination and they are breeding like insects,they don't care about the enviroment and have ruined all there natural resources.Arabs will kill anyone that gets in there way.Iran is a good partner for Brasil,like the DEVIL IS! We know my country did alot of bad things and the American people are tired of it! The next American president will have to change our policys and help get alog with other countries.If not America will stand along,it still will survive but it will be alot tougher! I hope we can unite all the Americas from Canada to Argentina! PEACE FOR ALL!
...
written by Guest, June 03, 2005
yawn
First Ninny
written by Guest, June 03, 2005
That first poster is just whistling in the dark. One of those silly NASCAR American ninnies waving a foam USA No. 1 American flag logo finger, his head as empty as the foam, chanting, U-S-A, U-S-A, U-S-A. A real cipher.
Different view
written by Guest, June 03, 2005
The lack of historical perspective in some of the comments is nothing short of appaling. The distortion of context is also mind boggling. It seems that some of the writers only read the headlines which are usually bias and anti american. Yes, I am talking about the American media which is copied all over the world. This administration has done a terrible job in explaining itself to the world; this has allowed liberals to take advantage of the circumstances and spin realities like there is no tomorrow. The suckers in South America, particularly in Brazil, are jumping in the band wagon for selfish purposes while pounding their chests in a macho trip. Brazil is being preped to be sucked dry by countries such as China or by countries who send their people to blow themselves up without regard to human life. Wake up and smell the coffee, South America has historically lacked leadership and has grown used to blame the USA for its ills. Had it not been for the US influence you would still be shooting arrows at each other. Look at your leaders Chavez, Fidel, Lula and so on, what an array of loosers. Pitiful.
New Strings for Old Puppets
written by Guest, June 03, 2005
Large Chinese investments in Brazil just make Brazil beholden to a different master.Lets see how the Chinese secret service reacts to anti Chinese political sentiment in Brazil. Brazilians who long for a different master are perpetuating the colonial mindset.
china domination in brazil
written by Guest, June 03, 2005
China will eat digest and spit out Brazil in the next 10 years. The populist anti-american enthusiam for the arab world, china, and whatever new flavor of the month that comes along will be the doom of brazil.



so right
written by Guest, June 03, 2005
The last 3 comments are so right that I had to comment. The root of the problem in South America is the lack of honest leadership and a deep rooted desire to feel important in the world forum. The last efforts made by Lula to form a front including Chavez and some others remind me of the Army of Brancaleone (not sure about the title of the film). All he has accomplished is to be the laughing stock of the so called civilized world. The revolution of 1964 in Brazil was a good example of being backwards. In fact it was a total paradox from a political/developmental stand point as well as a weak effort at being a "tough" system when compared to other rulers in various other countries. Brazilian historians should take a more objective and honest look at its history and level with the people instead of looking for ways to explain failures that are not explainable. Brazil is a great country as is the rest of South America suffering from a terrible case of inferiority complex.
Diff\'rnt View
written by Guest, June 04, 2005
"This administration has done a terrible job in explaining itself to the world…" What? I think you are dissassembling there. I've explainifed myself on the Internets and through other mediums.
- George W. Bush
Soooo Right
written by Guest, June 04, 2005
Wow, this forum is so full of American experts! And all for FREE! I certainly hope South America is taking notes! This stuff is priceless. THANK YOU!
Right View
written by Guest, June 04, 2005
GODDAMN LIBERALS! THEY JUST HATE AMERICA!!!!!!! THAT'S ALL. Now conservatives, we love America and we love the primitive South American and we love Mexicans (we call them beaners). Just do what we say and you'll become civilized. Now, kiss my feet and thank me, because if it weren't for the US you'ld be shooting arrows at each other and running around half-naked. You can thank us for your self-esteem. But, remember, it's all your fault. Wake up and smell the coffee, Juan Valdez.
Oooh yes!
written by Guest, June 04, 2005
The last three comments are just so right, I just got a hardon. The root of the problem is deeply rooted among the roots of the tree of life in my pants. That reminds me of a movie, I can't remember the name, but the guy made a total ass of himself and well, it's just like that. Hehe. Anyway, going back to 1964 is a real example of being backwards. In fact, it's something of a temporal paradox from the standpoint of time. And they called that a "tough" system! Ha! Anyway, yes, Brazilians need to blame themselves for their immense failures. Brazil is a great third world country (well, not quite the US, but what can I say, it's full of losers). You really should have more self-confidence.
so right
written by Guest, June 04, 2005
I really would like to understand the hypocrites who bash the US and still keep their asses in this country. Why? This is not Cuba you can all go to hell if you wish. In case it has not registered with you sick liberals this country is the choice for most everybody in the planet. They come by boat, risk their lives in the desert and every other possible way to join a free and democratic society. Quit your bull crap and move out to help the countries you are so concerned with. You are not needed here, get your sorry asses to the places where you so so adamantly defend. To those writing from other countries I would suggest that you take a good look at your history and at your present political situation and if you don't like it do something constructive about it rather than blame others. Every country has the right to kick the US out or not to accept its influence, do they? Those who did by became a clear example of regret and suffering for their people. Ask the people within the old Soviet Union sphere of influence if they would like to go back. Wake up and quit being cry babies, clean your own act.
So Dumb
written by Guest, June 04, 2005
Well, let me introduce you to a document called the United States Constitution. There's something in it called the First Amendment, which reads:

"Congress shall make no law respecting an establishment of religion, or prohibiting the free exercise thereof; or abridging the freedom of speech, or of the press; or the right of the people peaceably to assemble, and to petition the government for a redress of grievances."

So you see, Americans have the right to say what a complete fool Bush is, what a disaster he is, what a danger he is. It's called Freedom of Speech, and is one of the things that makes this country great. I love my country and our Constitution, not Bush. That makes me the patriot and you just a sycophantic panty waste.

So, once again: George W. Bush is a lousy president of the United States. He's a liar. He's a hypocrite. He's a menace. He’s shameful. Oh, and an buffoon.

And as for you, take your ignorant, redneck "America, love Bush or leave it" attitude and shove it. He's a fool and you are a dim-witted, lowbrow cipher.
Broken Record
written by Guest, June 04, 2005
"To those writing from other countries I would suggest that you take a good look at your history and at your present political situation and if you don't like it do something constructive about it rather than blame others."

This guy's a broken record. Hey, why don't you blow it out your ass!
Bush=Crime
written by Guest, June 04, 2005
The Bush family is full of criminals, going all the way back to Prescott Bush, financier of the Nzais. See, for example: http://www.hermes-press.com/crimes.htm and http://www.informationclearing...le3255.htm Just Google "crimes of prescott bush" and you'll get the goods on this family of criminals.

The Bush Family Values Photo Album is great: http://www.hereinreality.com/familyvalues.html Follow the links that show how every child of George and Jeb has been in trouble with the law! Hilarious, and scary http://www.hereinreality.com/gonewild.html

Why the US has not put the entire family in jail is incredible. What an embarrassment.
self-righteous
written by Guest, June 04, 2005
And Americans have the gall to lecture on corruption! How self-righteous and hypocritical.

"I would suggest that you take a good look at your history and at your present political situation" and "do something constructive about it rather than [lecture] others."
True
written by Guest, June 04, 2005
From the article above:

"....The US, it turns out, is a dispensable nation. Europe, China, Russia, Latin America and other regions and nations are quietly taking measures whose effect, if not sole purpose, will be to cut America down to size.

Ironically, the US, having won the cold war, is adopting the strategy that led the Soviet Union to lose it."

People in the US should read the article and take heed, rather than constantly chiding Latin America and proclaiming the superiority of the US. You're taking your position for granted and it's slipping out from under you as you strut around like you own the world.
Character and Morals
written by Guest, June 04, 2005
Hey, where's our character and morals guy? How do you assess the character and morals of the Bushes? Pretty bad, no?
Let Brazil do some work now...LOL
written by Guest, June 05, 2005
AMEN Brother - Amen !!!!!


It's a good thing that American influence in latin america is declining while china, europe, and asia are rising. The USA has been holding things together for far to long, and it's about time that you slackers pick up a shovel and start doing some work! How about 50 years of America closing it's borders and concentrating on nothing except it's own domestics problems? We could re-invent the automobile, aviation, mass production, agriculture etc. You see, America could care less about waning influence, America needs a break from the rest of you people! America has taken in all the losers from your countries and made them winners! Be careful what you wish for!
Good!
Written by Guest on 2005-06-02 16:29:23
okay
written by Guest, June 05, 2005
"America could care less about waning influence"

Keep on whistling.
Immigration
written by Guest, June 05, 2005
Immigrants created many of the most significant inventions in the US. Innovation would suffer greatly without immigration. It has suffered with the restrictions on student visas, which has the colleges and industry screaming. And, of course, immigration provides cheap labor for industry and agriculture. Immigrants add far more to the US economy than they take from it. Immigrants are a vital part of the US's economic engine.

And who is "we" (i.e., we could do this, we couls do that)? Tell me what have you invented? What have you added to the US economy? Are you just waiting on some super innovations that you'll divulge only after the boarders are closed? As far as I can tell, YOU are a domestic problem.
Let Brazil do some work now...LOL
written by Guest, June 05, 2005
You forgot to proclaim your "love" for Brazil, its people, food, culture, etc. LOL
Bush Country
written by Guest, June 06, 2005
At least all you Bush haters have this site to vent your stupidity out without causing any harm to anybody with a higher level of understanding about National Security and Politics.
The hippie days are gone. All this hatred is caused by jealousy and babycrying... Ahhh my candidate didnt win the election... the world is over... my life is over...hey, maybe it should be because it might not be worth a dine... now the order you mess with the US and you are gonna pay for it.
Bush is a good man and my only problem with him is that he should send the troops also to protect our borders against criminals, terrorists and illegals who dont give a damn about America but just want to suck our resources without paying for it. GO and take care of your business. We dont care... but dont knock on my door when nedding more money and the Chinese out the Arabs mak you a moder day slave..

This is my voice: BUSH COUNTRY - MY AMERICA
Re: First Ninny
written by Guest, June 06, 2005
Speaking of NASCAR, how long did it take you to start up your brain! I have noticed that most of these countries dont like the United States, Let's give um what they want, call in all the loans and leave them to their fate.
Re: Different view...
written by Guest, June 06, 2005
Good Comment! Let me add that the whole North and South American Continents have been conflict free for the past 100 years due to the military power and might of the United States. When Russia tried to plant Missiles in Cuba they were sent back to Russia and told, not in my backyard! Canada, and Soth America, the Carribean should be on their knees thanking the USA for their security! How about europe, bosnia, afganistan, iraq, iran, somalia, sudan, all in chaos due to their being no powerful stablizing country in their regions. If Brazil wants to become that country over here, go ahead, do as the BIG BOYS DO!
Character and morals guy
written by Guest, June 06, 2005
The Bushes are very bad! Colin Powell tried to warn that group in power, but they did'nt listen which is why we are having thses conversations instead of talking about Brazilian Bunda!
Re: Immigration
written by Guest, June 06, 2005
We know about all the immigrant did this, and the immigrant did that stuff! No one is discounting the contribution of Sergio K Migrant. However there is a train of thought out there that is saying that the USA is responsible for all their ills, how many times were we attacked and had to DEFEND ourselves. You can call Americans everything in the book, but one thing we are not is COWARDS! The USA reacts to aggressive actions taken towards the USA. South America with its illegal drugs, and immigrants is another example of the USA under attack! Seem, Seem, Sala, Veem, you can now come out of the trance you have been in all your life!
Re:First Ninny
written by Guest, June 06, 2005
Took you this long to come up with that dud? Man, you are a ninny!
Bush Cuntry
written by Guest, June 06, 2005
The facts are undeniable: the Bush family is a family of criminals. He should be impeached and the whole family thrown in jail.
Re: Immigration
written by Guest, June 06, 2005
Up your meds, man. You're coming unhinged.
Re: Different view…
written by Guest, June 06, 2005
Really dumb comment! See responses above. Plus, the US has been a very destabilizing force in Latin America. You are a revisionist or a complete ingnoramus to say otherwise. See, e.g., Chile, El Salvador, Nicaragua, etc.

The School of the Americas was established in Panama in 1946, supposedly to promote stability in Latin America. But by the 1960s the School had spawned so many tyrants, dictators, and their henchmen that it was known in Latin American circles as the Escuela de Golpes or School of Coups. Among the graduates of the School are General Manuel Noriega, former President of Panama, now residing in a U.S. federal prison for drug running; General Hugo Banzer, brutal dictator of Bolivia from 1971-78 who was inducted into the SOA Hall of Fame in 1988; Salvadoran death squad leader Roberto D'Aubuisson; General Hector Gramajo, former defense minister in Guatemala, an architect of genocidal military policies of the 1980s; and former Argentine junta leader Leopoldo Galtiere, who oversaw the final two years of that country's "dirty war," when 30,000 suspected dissidents were tortured and murdered.

Further, the appetite for cocaine in the US and its disastrous war on drugs has been the cause of constant instability in Latin America.

Good Lord man. Yours is indeed a "different view." And a very ignorant view to boot.
BeWary ofChina
written by Guest, June 06, 2005
Criticize the U.S. ifyou like. Most Americans couldn't give a rat's butt about what Brasilians think of them. But then again most Americans couldn't locate Brasil on a map if their lives depended on it.Brasilians are for the most part, however, similarly ignorant of the U.S.
Much of the animosity is due to envy. Most of the major technological and scientific innovations of the past century were American. Brasil has a long way to go before it can play in the same league. As for China, it's economic expansion won't continue forever. It's based on selling cheap goods to the developed countries. The huge trade deficits can't be allowed to continue much longer. Bush will be gone soon but the democratic institutions which made America the greatest power in the world will remain. I hope that you feel comfortable dealing with a Commie dictatorship where there is no freedom of expression nor of religion.
BeWary ofChina
written by Guest, June 06, 2005
Criticize the U.S. ifyou like. Most Americans couldn't give a rat's butt about what Brasilians think of them. But then again most Americans couldn't locate Brasil on a map if their lives depended on it.Brasilians are for the most part, however, similarly ignorant of the U.S.
Much of the animosity is due to envy. Most of the major technological and scientific innovations of the past century were American. Brasil has a long way to go before it can play in the same league. As for China, it's economic expansion won't continue forever. It's based on selling cheap goods to the developed countries. The huge trade deficits can't be allowed to continue much longer. Bush will be gone soon but the democratic institutions which made America the greatest power in the world will remain. I hope that you feel comfortable dealing with a Commie dictatorship where there is no freedom of expression nor of religion.
Re: BeWary ofChina
written by Guest, June 06, 2005
"Bush will be gone soon but the democratic institutions which made America the greatest power in the world will remain." With what the Bush administration is doing and its cohorts in the Congress, one can only hope that he'll be out of office before more damage to our democratic institutions is done.

"Most Americans couldn't give a rat's butt about what Brasilians think of them. But then again most Americans couldn't locate Brasil on a map if their lives depended on it." That certainly is true. But, I must disagree on the sentence that followed. Brazilians are much more knowledgeable of the US than the other way around. I can't believe that someone who proclaims the greatness of the US would think otherwise.

"Much of the animosity is due to envy. Most of the major technological and scientific innovations of the past century were American. Brasil has a long way to go before it can play in the same league." This is pretty much bulls**t bragging and chest pounding. Really, what does this add to the debate, and why do you feel compelled to do it? Why not just be humble in your greatness? You don't think whatever animosity that exists has something to do with US foreign policy? It's all just envy? You sound like grammar school girls who used to say "You're just jealous!" Not a very sophisticated argument.

"As for China, it's economic expansion won't continue forever. It's based on selling cheap goods to the developed countries." Well, nothing is forever, not even the US's supremacy or economic expansion. That's what people used to say about Japan (maybe you're too young to remember that). Tell me, how do you know how long it will continue? Are you a crack economist or is this just a premonition? Do you not also realize how much of Bush's profligate policies are being financed by China?

"The huge trade deficits can't be allowed to continue much longer." This is something of a non sequitur, so I'm not sure what your point is. Who’s trade deficit? The US's with China? With the rest of the world? Explain why you believe it can't be allowed to continue much longer. It's true, the US ships to China raw materials and China sends back consumer goods. Not a healthy situation.

"I hope that you feel comfortable dealing with a Commie dictatorship where there is no freedom of expression nor of religion." Hmm. You're speaking to Brazilians I take it. Well, here, I think you're just engaging in paranoid red baiting. Not sure what you're referring to either. Brazil is far from communist. It's not likely to become communist either. You're being hysterical. You don't win the argument by calling other people communist.
...
written by Guest, June 06, 2005
That sentence about Japan was not placed well. What I meant was that people used to say Japan's economy was based only on selling cheap imitation products to the US. There was even a place in Japan called USA so it could bear the mark "made in USA."

And it occurs to me that by your statement about "commies" you meant that you hope Brazil is comfortable dealing with China, a communist country, etc. Well, it certainly hasn't bothered the US. Why should it bother Brazil then?
Bush Country
written by Guest, June 06, 2005
The Bush Country poster must be part of the 0.01% top wage earners in the US. Why else would he be such a fan of the Bush administration?

The gap between rich and poor in the US has increased rapidly under Bush. It's not by accident either. It's policy.

The New York Times reports, "Under the Bush tax cuts, the 400 taxpayers with the highest incomes - a minimum of $87 million in 2000, the last year for which the government will release such data - now pay income, Medicare and Social Security taxes amounting to virtually the same percentage of their incomes as people making $50,000 to $75,000. Those earning more than $10 million a year now pay a lesser share of their income in these taxes than those making $100,000 to $200,000."

For every additional dollar earned by the bottom 90 percent of the population between 1950 and 1970, those in the top 0.01 percent earned an additional $162. That gap has since skyrocketed. For every additional dollar earned by the bottom 90 percent between 1990 and 2002, each taxpayer in that top bracket brought in an extra $18,000.

The Los Angeles Times recently reported that the chief executives at California's largest 100 companies took home a collective $1.1 billion in 2004, an increase of nearly 20 percent over the previous year. The average worker in California received a 2.9 percent raise last year.

Indeed, economic mobility in the United States - the extent to which individuals and families move from one social class to another - is no higher than in Britain or France, and lower than in some Scandinavian countries.

Congratulations if you are among that 0.01%. You've pulled-off a great hoax on the rest of society. If you're not in that elite (and it is the elite, not the so-called Liberal elite that tries to protect the common person), you have been duped. Go ahead and ridicule Brazil. While you are laughing, that's direction your economy is going.
Land of Opportunity
written by Guest, June 07, 2005
The United States now ranks the highest among the highly developed countries in each of the seven measures of inequality tracked by the index. While we enjoy the second highest GDP in the world (excluding tiny Luxembourg), we rank dead last among the 20 most developed countries in fighting poverty and we're off the chart in terms of the number of Americans living on half the median income or less.

On the eve of George W. Bush's second inauguration The Economist produced a sobering analysis of what is happening to the old notion that any American can get to the top. With income inequality not seen since the first Gilded Age (and this is The Economist editors speaking) - with "an education system increasingly stratified with fewer resources than those of their richer contemporaries" and great universities "increasingly reinforcing rather than reducing these educational inequalities" - with corporate employees finding it "harder...to start at the bottom and rise up the company hierarchy by dint of hard work and self-improvement" - "with the yawning gap between incomes at the top and bottom" - the editors of The Economist - all friends of business and advocates of capitalism and free markets - concluded that "The United States risks calcifying into a European-style class-based society."

A May 13, 2005 front-page leader in the Wall Street Journal concluded that "As the gap between rich and poor has widened since 1970, the odds that a child born in poverty will climb to wealth - or that a rich child will fall into middle class - remain stuck....Despite the widespread belief that the U.S. remains a more mobile society than Europe, economists and sociologists say that in recent decades the typical child starting out in poverty in continental Europe (or in Canada) has had a better chance at prosperity."

CNN reported that workers in the American territory of the Northern Mariana Islands were being forced to labor under sweatshop conditions producing garments for Tommy Hilfiger, Calvin Klein, Gap and Liz Claiborne. The garments were then shipped tariff-free and quota-free to the American market where they were entitled to display the coveted "Made in the USA" label. When Republican Senator Frank Murkowski of Alaska heard that these people were being paid barely half the U.S. minimum hourly wage and were forced to live behind barbed wire in squalid shacks without plumbing while working l2 hours a day, often seven days a week, with none of the legal protections U.S. workers are guaranteed, he became enraged. The Senate unanimously passed a bill that would extend the protection of our laws to the U.S. territory of the Northern Marianas. Then lobbyist Jack Abramoff moved got with Tom DeLay. The records show they met at least two dozen times. DeLay traveled to the Marianas with his family and staff - on a "scholarship" provided by Abramoff's clients - where they played golf and went snorkeling not far the sweatshops. DeLay told the Washington Post that the sweatshops were "a perfect petri dish of capitalism." ABC-TV News recorded him praising Abramoff's clients by saying: "You are a shining light for what is happening to the Republican Party, and you represent everything that is good about what we are trying to do in America and leading the world in the free-market system." Delay killed the Senate bill.

The average real income of the bottom 90 percent of American taxpayers fell by 7 percent between l973 and 2000. The minimum wage hasn't been raised since l997.

The American Political Science Association finds that "increasing inequalities threaten the American ideal of equal citizenship and that progress toward real democracy may have stalled in this country and even reversed." A quarter of all whites in this country have no financial assets. The median white household has 62% more income and twelve times as much wealth as the median black household and that 6l% of African-Americans in this country and half of all Latinos have no financial assets at all.
America Rapidly Falling
written by Guest, June 07, 2005
Loss of jobs, healthcare, soon to be Social Security, blacks stuck in permanent poverty with no chance for advancement, increasing homelessness, skyrocketing cost of living. America is only a great country for the small white elite. Even the white middle class is losing ground.

America is rapidly approaching the rich - poor class system of the third world. There is no real opportunity here. In a few years China will be the world's superpower followed by India and America will be at the bottom of the dung heap.

The country is rapidly destabilizing and falling yet few Americans can see that.
America Rapidly Falling
written by Guest, June 07, 2005
Actually, many Americans see what's going on. There is a large constituancy of people who are deluded Bush sycophants who just don't want to hear about it. It's mind boggling.
Yes, still land of opportunity
written by Guest, June 07, 2005
Firstly, I am always appaled by the people who always bring up stats from the NYTimes and LATimes. Two of the most pivotal forces behind the attemp to oust Bush from the White House.
Secondly, what the world wants is the US to become a welfare state like Europe. This country is still the land of opportunity. Also, according to recent data from the Border Patrol, the number of Brazilians aprehended along the US-Mexico border has skyrocketed as well.
Why is that?
Forget coming here. We dont have nothing to offer, right? - Try to get a job in France or Germany. Good Luck.
I came from nothing and worked my way up by facing any obstacle head on, not by whining that life is unfair.
If we are in decline stay off our backyard. We will work
in the fields if we have to. America was conquered and built on hard work and love for the homeland.

A person driven to succeed doesnt waste time on numbers given out by the NYTimes trying to justify his
failures. He just does it.

By the way I am the BUSH COUNTRY guy and I am not in the elite and enjoy our the freedom and opportunities this great country offers me.
Deaf, Dumb and Blind
written by Guest, June 07, 2005
"Firstly, I am always appaled by the people who always bring up stats from the NYTimes and LATimes."

That demonstrates what a complete ignoramus you are. What in idiodic thing to say. Particulary since the Wall Street Journal, The Economist, and other sources are reporting the same thing.

Oh, of course, you prefer your "fair and balanced" Limbaugh, Hanity, Savage, Coulter, etc. sources of information over leading news papers like the NY Times, LA Times, Wall Street Journal, and The Economist. By all means, don't let the facts obscure your judgment. As the saying goes: You can lead a horse to water, but you can't make him drink.

"By the way I am the BUSH COUNTRY guy and I am not in the elite"

Yes, the US is a great country, but not as great as it was, and in large measure because of Bush's policies. Like I said, you are being duped. You're being deaf, dumb and blind to the facts for reasons I cannot understand.

Just out of curiosity, what is your job?
FYI
written by Guest, June 07, 2005
Computer Programming and Software Architecture .
FYI
written by Guest, June 07, 2005
Well, good luck to you. But you shouldn't let your ideology get in the way of the ability to reason and consider the facts that are right under your nose. If you think that the WSJ, The Economist, and CNN are in some conspiracy agasint Bush, you are seriously deluded.
FYI
written by Guest, June 07, 2005
Do you live in India?
Re: Be Wary of China
written by Guest, June 07, 2005
" Brazilians are much more knowledgeable of the US than the other way around. I can't believe that someone who proclaims the greatness of the US would think otherwise." You've obviously never been to Brasil to make such an asinine statement. All Brasilians know about the U.S. they learn from the rabidly anti-American media. Pick up Folha or O Globo and read the editorials.
Few Brasilians travel or have much informed knowledge of the world outside of Brasil. Lula is typical of Brasilians. Proud to be an ignoramus.
Brasilians who live in the U.S. generally have a much different opinion.
" This is pretty much bulls**t bragging and chest pounding. Really, what does this add to the debate, and why do you feel compelled to do it? Why not just be humble in your greatness? You don't think whatever animosity that exists has something to do with US foreign policy? It's all just envy? "
I'm not American so you're just blowing hot air. Yes, in fact I do admire America for its enormous contributions to human progress. You sound like one of those self-loathing, pitiful, slimeballs who go around disparaging their own country with impunity. As if people from other countries are somehow impressed.
Go live in China whose regime is responsible for the deaths of tens of millions. Sure, that's equivalent to pissing on the Koran and killing a few thousand islamofascists. Recognizing reality is not
red baiting.
FYI RESIDENCE
written by Guest, June 07, 2005
No. I live in sunny SoCal
Re: Be Wary of China
written by Guest, June 07, 2005
"You've obviously never been to Brasil"

Not true. I frequently live there, in fact.

"I'm not American"

Then you're just a sycophant panty waste. Okay. You know, the US doesn't need your uninformed ass licking. You're not doing us any good.

So, where do you live?

"You sound like one of those self-loathing, pitiful, slimeballs who go around disparaging their own country with impunity."

Oh, one of those. No, I'm not one of those. I am however someone who knows more about the US than you do. I am a patriot. I love my country (and myself). I also know that the greatness of this country is being destroyed by Bush, et al. You see, I criticize in the hope that the US will be a greater place. I'm exercising my Constitutional rights as a US citizen to engage in political debate. Whereas apparently you…well, honestly, if you're not American I don't understand why you feel the need to pucker up your lips and kiss our asses.

As for China, you apparently have no idea that the US has been dealing with it for years and has no problem doing so. It also accepts Chinese investment to fund Bush's profligate policies, again without a problem. I don't particularly like China because of its human rights violations. But, you disparaged others for dealing with China, when the US is doing more trade with China than any other nation. All I was pointing out was the hypocrisy of your position. But, again, you are such a sycophantic ass kisser you can't see that.

You are a hopeless clown.
FYI
written by Guest, June 07, 2005
For a Californian with an education you sure write like an ignorant red neck. I guess the only thing you learned in school was how to write code.
...
written by Guest, June 07, 2005
"I am not in the elite and enjoy our the freedom and opportunities this great country offers me."

Your story doesn't disprove the facts. A person educated in rudimentary logic (I assume that's covered in computer programing) would know that much at least. Try seeing past your own navel for a change. The facts are there if you want to know the truth.
The American broken record...
written by Guest, June 07, 2005
What has the US done for Latin America that did not serve its dominance in the first place?

Brasil is right....the future is bright. Place the US in the back burner and go in search of new markets and alliances!

The US has become an indispinsible superpower, brings no benefits to anyone but harm. Just look around, the only nation in the world that has its national flag burn every day of the year in some part of the world. To me, that speaks volumes!

Like the old saying goes "To understand the future, examine the past" ....no brainer!

Good day!

expressing myself?
written by Guest, June 07, 2005
int main()
{
IDIOT* somePeopleHere;
SomePeopleHere = new IDIOT("Joe Knows is all", 2004);
CClientDC dc;
CString s;

if(static_castMORONS(&Tree_Huggers) == YOU)
{
s.Format("Sorry for: %s", &IDIOT);
dc.TextOut(s + " wasting his time");
}
else
dc.TextOut("You are not an idiot after all")

for(int aLoser = 1; aLoser < GetNumberPeopleHere(); aLoser++)
{
IDENTIFY(AllLosers()->m_mGetaLife())
HFORGIVENESS(ShowThemTheLight(&DIRECTION);
}
}

expressing myself?
written by Guest, June 07, 2005
100 points for humor
expressing myself? 2
written by Guest, June 07, 2005
nt main()
{
IDIOT* somePeopleHere;
SomePeopleHere = smarter ME("Basement Booger Eaterl", 2004);
CClientDC dc;
CString s;

if(static_I_AM_A_MORONS(&Tree_Huggers) == ME)
{
s.Format("Kick: %s", &ME(in the teeth));
dc.TextOut(s + " wasting your time");
}
else
dc.TextOut("I still am an idiot after all")

for(int aLoser = 1; aLoser < ExcludePeopleHere(); I_Am_A_Loser++)
{
IDENTIFY(MeLosers()->m_mHaveNoLife()) FORGIVEME(ShineSomeLightUpMyASS(&DIRECTION);
}
}
expressing myself? 2
written by Guest, June 07, 2005
Now you're just being stupid again. What should we have expected? Minus 1,000 points. Game over. Wanker.
expressing myself 2
written by Guest, June 07, 2005
Expressing myself 2
is an UNAUTHORIZED COPY AND CLONE
(just like in Btazil)

Express myself 1 is a copyright and a proprietary intellectual work.

Express myself 1

expressing myself 2
written by Guest, June 07, 2005
An intellectual work, it is not. But, whatever, man. Stop geeking off, it's really lame.
Weapon
written by Guest, June 07, 2005
The downside of my work?
Providing technology so you all can use to polute
other people's minds with your propaganda.

The internet is truly a weapon in the wrong hands.

Only if I could see your faces to have a free laugh..
\"Weapon\"
written by Guest, June 07, 2005
Yes, quoting the Wall Street Journal, The Economist, and CNN -- LIberal propaganda. What a complete ignoramus you are!

Congratulations, though. Your last post proved that you are not only an ignorant geek, but a witless one too.
Bye
written by Guest, June 07, 2005
Well, I had my fun with you all and hope the
pastures will get greener soon.

I cant find anyone I can relate to around here because
they're probably all working and doing something more productive...

so much for your blah ....God Bless

See 'ya
Bye
written by Guest, June 07, 2005
"I cant find anyone I can relate to around here because
they're probably all working and doing something more productive..."

Yes, they're still in school, just waking up from nap time. Next class will be phonics, followed by reading from a McGuffey's Reader.

So much for your whaaaa…
US influence waning in Brazil...
written by Guest, June 08, 2005
Well it looks like the USA and UK have decided to make major investments in Africa.

Looks like the US and UK have determined that Brazil, China, and the Arab countries are a waste of time...

Just think of the potential here of Africa as an industrial giant allied with the US and the UK...

That would put an end to all aspirations of future greatness for Brazil and others...
US influence waning in Brazil...
written by Guest, June 09, 2005
"That would put an end to all aspirations of future greatness for Brazil and others..." Now there's wishful thinking. Africa is pretty far from becoming an industrial giant. The US and the UK are spending all their money on war. Good luck, Africa, but I'm not seeing it.
Re: Us Influence...
written by Guest, June 09, 2005
No, there is a lot of saber rattling going on in Brazil, and Venezuela....

I saw the press conference between Bush, and Blair as a response to Lula's talk about deals with Arabs, and China.

They are in effect saying to Brazil, you're not important either...
Re: Us Influence...
written by Guest, June 10, 2005
Saber rattling? What the hell are you talking about?
...
written by Guest, June 10, 2005
Africa has been an industrial giant for the past 600 years - diamond mines, rubber, gold mines and now tanzanite.

The only problem is that the wealth has benefitted everyone but Africans.

...
written by Guest, June 10, 2005
"the wealth has benefitted everyone but Africans" - yes, I'll agree with that. I'll also agree that it's been a source of raw materials, but not an "industrial giant." Rather, a giant source of materials for industry elsewhere.
BUSH IS SMART
written by Guest, June 10, 2005
Hey Liberals! You voted for someone who got 4 D's in college (including Political Science) and had a worse grade point average than BUSH at Yale! His name is JOHN KERRY! Go f**k yourselves up your collective a*****es.
NO, HE\'S DUMB
written by Guest, June 10, 2005
Actually, the GPAs were "virtually identical" according to CNN, and Kerry's HIGHEST grade was in political science. Yes, Kerry had a 76 and Bush had a 77. Whoopie. It is clear that Bush was consistently mediocre, whereas Kerry’s had four Ds that brought the GPA way down. All of us who have been to a university have had extremely intelligent friends with records like Kerry’s. Also, Bush's IQ has been rated at among the lowest of all our Presidents. Bush is, in fact, not too bright.

Anyway, so I’ll give it to you: They're both idiots. What do I care? I can't stand either one of them. Of course, one of the idiots was a draft dodger and the other a war hero. There were many other differences that made Kerry the lesser of two idiots to many people. In the end, the most dangerous idiot, the most incompetent idiot, the most dishonest idiot won.
To the brilliant
written by Guest, June 11, 2005
To the brilliant author of the post bellow, you should at least finish the second grade before you attempt to post on political subjects. Judging from your lack of literacy, you don’t read much… Which would make perfect sense why you would defend the Bush administration, you obviously have no knowledge of history, hell you’re illiterate. Learn how to write, you’re an embarrassment to literate Americans, such as myself. Why don’t you just go back to watching your dumb reality TV shows and drinking your boxed wine or cheap beer, whatever ignorant rednecks drink nowadays.


At least all you Bush haters have this site to vent your stupidity out without causing any harm to anybody with a higher level of understanding about National Security and Politics.
The hippie days are gone. All this hatred is caused by jealousy and babycrying... Ahhh my candidate didnt win the election... the world is over... my life is over...hey, maybe it should be because it might not be worth a dine... now the order you mess with the US and you are gonna pay for it.
Bush is a good man and my only problem with him is that he should send the
troops also to protect our borders against criminals, terrorists and illegals who dont give a damn about America but just want to suck our resources without paying for it. GO and take care of your business. We dont care... but dont knock on my door when nedding more money and the Chinese out the Arabs mak you a moder day slave..
Bush Sampler
written by Guest, June 11, 2005
"I think it's very important for the American President to mean what he says. That's why I understand that the enemy could misread what I say. That's why I try to be as clearly I can." —George W. Bush, Washington, D.C., Sept. 23, 2004

"Joe, I don't do nuance." —George W. Bush to Sen. Joseph Biden, as quoted in Time, Feb. 15, 2004

"See, in my line of work you got to keep repeating things over and over and over again for the truth to sink in, to kind of catapult the propaganda." —George W. Bush, Greece, N.Y., May 24, 2005

"It's in our country's interests to find those who would do harm to us and get them out of harm's way." —George W. Bush, Washington, D.C., April 28, 2005

"We expect the states to show us whether or not we're achieving simple objectives — like literacy, literacy in math, the ability to read and write." —George W. Bush, on federal education requirements, Washington, D.C., April 28, 2005

"Then you wake up at the high school level and find out that the illiteracy level of our children are appalling." —George W. Bush, Washington, D.C., Jan. 23, 2004

"I mean, there needs to be a wholesale effort against racial profiling, which is illiterate children." —Second presidential debate, Oct. 11, 2000

"He understands the need for a timely write of the constitution." —George W. Bush, on Prime Minister Iyad Allawi of Iraq, Washington, D.C., April 28, 2005

"I want to appreciate those of you who wear our nation's uniform for your sacrifice." —George W. Bush, Jacksonville, Fla., Jan. 14, 2005

"More Muslims have died at the hands of killers than — I say more Muslims — a lot of Muslims have died — I don't know the exact count — at Istanbul. Look at these different places around the world where there's been tremendous death and destruction because killers kill." —George W. Bush, Washington, D.C., Jan. 29, 2004

"It's a time of sorrow and sadness when we lose a loss of life." —George W. Bush, Washington, D.C., Dec. 21, 2004

"Too many good docs are getting out of the business. Too many OB-GYNs aren't able to practice their love with women all across this country." —George W. Bush, Poplar Bluff, Mo., Sept. 6, 2004

"Families is where our nation finds hope, where wings take dream." —LaCrosse, Wis., Oct. 18, 2000

"I know the human being and fish can coexist peacefully." —Saginaw, Mich., Sept. 29, 2000

"I will have a foreign-handed foreign policy." —Redwood, Calif., Sept. 27, 2000

"One of the common denominators I have found is that expectations rise above that which is expected." --Los Angeles, Sept. 27, 2000

"...more and more of our imports are coming from overseas." - On NPR's Morning Edition (9/26)

"...I don't need to be subliminabable.." - Orlando, FL, Sept. 12

"I was a prisoner too, but for bad reasons." —George W. Bush, to Argentine President Nestor Kirchner, on being told that all but one of the Argentine delegates to a summit meeting were imprisoned during the military dictatorship, Monterrey, Mexico, Jan. 13, 2004

"The point is, this is a way to help inoculate me about what has come and is coming." -on his anti-Gore ad, in an interview with the New York Times, Sept. 2, 2000

"exemplarary"... - On 60 Minutes, 09/10/20

"We cannot let terriers and rogue nations hold this nation hostile or hold our allies hostile.'' —Des Moines, Iowa, Aug. 21, 2000

"I hope you leave here and walk out and say, 'What did he say?'" —George W. Bush, Beaverton, Oregon, Aug. 13, 2004
Go and learn Chinese
written by Guest, June 12, 2005
I personally feel threaten by some conflicts. If you think about the conqueror and those who will be conquered, at least you might save the world from being terrorised. The meaning of terrorism is now being exploited to the point of no return. For example, some people might think that, terrorism is sporadic and almost anyone on this earth will be taking part in all sorts of activities. It could also refering to those Arabs who are practicing for the next games or competition in air rifle and when someone got the scoop, than the news will be spreading saying that, BEWARE, OSAMA BIN LADEN IS BEING PRODUCED LIVE ON TV . Ok! just think about the Chinese now. They almost conquer the world with their pirated CDs and pirated softwares, just like Bollywood conquering Hollywood. Now people from around the world are well versed about Shah Rukh Khan, Sushmita Sen, well just like Jackie Chan and Michelle Yeoh.

So people, think about it and maybe all of us must feel and belief in what we do and what we say. There is no harm for being truthful and a believer.






Go and learn Chinese
written by Guest, June 12, 2005
I don't follow what you're trying to say. I think it's a language problem. Pretend I'm George Bush, and explain it - like you're talking to a simpleton.
More Evidence of US Decline in South Ame
written by Guest, June 15, 2005
Here is clear evidence of declining US influence in Latin America. This decline in influence in Latin America will have in the future important economic impact in the American economy.

With the declining American influence, and the rise of China as the replacement to US influence in South America eventually the population of many of these countries will start taking their investments from the US economy to invest in South America.

Brazilians alone have over $ 250 billion dollars invested outside of Brazil, and a large part of that money is here in the US. With most countries going from economic crisis to economic crisis in South America the population of many of these countries transferred their savings to be invested in the US economy, because of economic stability of the US economy. All together I would not be surprised if today the people from South American countries have an estimated $ 600 or $ 800 billion dollars invested in the US economy.

You can see evidence of American influence decline in South America all over the place. First, at the end of April 2005 Condi Rice made a two-day visit to Brazil. One of Condi Rice’s goals in that trip to Brazil it was to convince President Lula to change his mind and have Brazil vote for the US candidate that would head the Organization of American States (OAS) for the next 5 years.

At the end the candidate that Brazil was supporting all along, in opposition to the United States, Mr. Insulza from Chile was the winner.

This election it is a clear signal to the world of how fast the United States is losing its influence in Latin America. It is unbelievable the decline of US influence right on its backyard. It was the first time in the organizations 60-year history that the candidate supported by Washington did not win.

Now, about a month later from that amazing defeat President Bush, and Condi Rice gave speeches over the weekend to the Annual meeting of the Organization of American States (OAS). But the representatives of the member countries promptly rejected the American proposal that they presented for the organization. (From all the countries in the Americas, only Cuba is not a member of that organization)

Here is some information from that OAS meeting that happened over the weekend in Florida as reported by the BBC News:

“Bush pushes for free trade in OAS”

President George W Bush has said free trade would strengthen democracy in the Americas, in an address to the Organization of American States (OAS).
BBC News - Monday, June 6, 2005
He said a pan-American trade pact would unite the region in prosperity and reduce the risk of "false ideologies".

Earlier, the US secretary of state called on the OAS to bolster struggling Latin American democracies.

Several countries are said to be considering an alternative plan, which some diplomats see as "less intrusive".
Ministers from 34 American and Caribbean nations are in Fort Lauderdale, Florida, to discuss the region's most pressing problems.

'Commitment'

Mr Bush said a recent free trade deal between the US and Central American states provided "a historic opportunity to bring prosperity to people who have never known it.

"It is a signal of the US commitment to democracy and prosperity for our neighbours," he said, urging Congress to ratify the agreement.

He said he would continue to push for a pan-American deal.

"An Americas linked by trade is less likely to be divided by resentment and false ideologies," he said.

A proposal to create a Free Trade Area of the Americas has stalled over the issue of agricultural subsidies.

Mr Bush said the OAS charter guaranteed all people of the Americas "the right to democracy".

'Intrusion'

Nearly all Latin American countries have moved from dictatorship to democracy over the last three decades - but elected governments have still been liable to fall or be overthrown.

Opening the summit on Sunday, Condoleezza Rice called for greater intervention by the OAS in Latin America, highlighting concern over crises in Bolivia, Ecuador and Haiti.

Venezuelan President Hugo Chavez called the Bush administration's plan a ploy to justify US intervention in the region. "The times in which the OAS was an instrument of the government in Washington are gone," he said.

Venezuelan Foreign Minister Ali Rodriguez said OAS rules did not allow members to monitor the democratic processes of other states. Mexico has also expressed reservations.

Brazil and other countries have been putting together an alternative proposal.
"Democracy cannot be imposed. It is born from dialogue," Brazil's Foreign Minister Celso Amorim said.

But OAS Secretary General Jose Miguel Insulza, of Chile, denied the rival proposal amounted to a rejection of the US plan.


******************


Brazil was the original leader of the Americas, and the “Andrada Doctrine” established the foundations for foreign policy for the Americas.

In the past Brazil had its historical moments of leadership in the Americas. Brazil became the original leader of the Americas in the early 1800’s under the leadership of Jose Bonifacio and his “Andrada Doctrine.”

I have seen a number of times over the year’s people quoting the “Monroe Doctrine” in written articles in major US newspapers and magazines, and also on television programs.

The American history books, written from an American history perspective, usually mention the Monroe Doctrine as an important American contribution to setting up foreign policy for the Americas. Usually, they are trying to imply that the Monroe administration was the first administration of any country in the Americas to establish foreign policy for the Americas not allowing any new European colonies in the Americas, and European powers were not to interfere in the affairs of the countries of the American hemisphere.

President James Monroe in his seventh annual address to the U.S. Congress on Dec. 2, 1823, made a statement that eventually became one of the foundations of US policy in Latin America. Monroe’s statement initially remained only a declaration of policy; its increasing use and popularity elevated it to a principle, slowly becoming in the mid-1840’s what we call today the Monroe Doctrine.

The Andrada Doctrine

The “Andrada Doctrine” was the original document that laid out the foreign policy structure for the Americas. The “Andrada Doctrine” precedes by 18 months, and it is more precise and more courageous than the “Monroe Doctrine” laid out by the United States president in his message to Congress in December 2, 1823.

There is a certain resemblance between both doctrines, but we have to recognize and give credit to José Bonifácio for being the first to expose his thoughts and making a policy in that regard for the entire hemisphere. José Bonifácio preceded the American President James Monroe in formulating foreign policy for the American hemisphere by more than one and a half years.

Here is some historical information regarding Brazilian leadership of the Americas, and the “Andrada Doctrine” by Ricardo C. Amaral.

http://brazil-leaderoftheamericas.blogspot.com/

January 1, 2005
“The Andrada Doctrine – Part I”
and
“The Andrada Doctrine – Part II”

In May 30, 1822, Brazil through the “Andrada Doctrine” became the original leader of the Americas regarding foreign policy issues dealing with the defense of the American continent against European interference in the affairs of the countries of the American hemisphere
By: Ricardo C. Amaral

.
In the name of justice
written by Guest, June 23, 2005
Dear Mr. Ricardo,

I am truly surprise that the world today has been cheated into believing that the might and the mightiest will rule while the weak and the weakest will parish. As we know that today, America is the only superpower of the world and nobody dares to challenge it. Then suddenly, out of the blue Bush decided to bring in OSAMA BIN LADEN into the world scene. Then the war in the middle-east become so brutal that I just can't recognize if Bush is in the state of stability or he needs to have another advisor besides Condi Rice. So far, I have seen rejection upon rejection from the middle-east. In order to stop more bloodshed, Bush must consult with Arabs, not with that Condi Rice. All she dares to do is just smile infront of those Arabs and make few gestures that only confuse and infuriate those emirs..... Sometimes, Condi Rice seems to be in the state of mental pressure where somebody else dictates her to speak and I personally feel that her speech has been written by someone else and definitely not from a normal person. Someone who wish to see more bloodshed and brutal attack in the middle-east.











Ricardo C. Amaral
written by Guest, June 27, 2005
.

Reply to In name of justice.

I posted the following info in another message board a few days ago.

June 21, 2005

My uncle returned to Brazil yesterday after visiting the United States the last 2 weeks. He stayed in my house for a few days and we had the chance to talk about what is going on in Brazil.

Over the weekend I asked him a question - I asked him what the average Brazilian thinks regarding US Secretary of State Condi Rice.

He told me that the only way he could picture her was dressed in a bikini and playing the drums with a block of dancing girls during Carnival time in Brazil.

I was not surprised by his honest answer. And I bet most people in Latin America would agree with my uncles’ opinion. (Most people respected Colin Powell because of his credentials.)


When George W. Bush nominated Condi Rice.as his Secretary of State I did post at the time the following information on the PBS message board:

Government position:
Secretary of State : Condi Rice

Credentials: Very good Pianist.

Main goal for the coming 4 years: Entertain the major leaders of the world with pieces by Choppin, Mozart, and so on…..

She might expand her road show and start also singing and dancing to become a more complete entertainer.

***

Then I saw some further information regarding Condi Rice on television as follows:

“Bush names hawkish Rice top U.S. diplomat”

A number of cable television news has mentioned Condolleezza Rice’s credentials to become the new Secretary of State. They mentioned that:

1) She is an accomplished pianist.

And

2) She is a very good skater.

Now I understand why she was chosen to be the new Secretary of State, she will perform for audiences around the world.

They did not say if she also could sing and dance.

George W. Bush is hiring an entertainer for the position of US Secretary of State.

What kind of music she will perform when she goes to the Middle East to meet with Arab officials?

Rap?

How she will use her high qualifications as a pianist and as a skater to solve the problems around the world. I guess - When everything else fails, as a last resort Americans always go to show business - song and dance.

If that was the credentials for the Secretary of State position, then why George W. Bush did not choose someone with more talent? I know he could not choose Catherine Zeta-Jones because she is a native of another country. But even Madonna would have been a better choice since she has more prestige and talent than Condolleezza Rice.

The US Secretary of State position is one of the most important cabinet positions in the US government. The Secretary of State is the number one international face of the US.

It is a very though job for anyone by the nature of the beast. Today, that job is even harder to handle than before, because of the international policies adopted by the Bush administration since January 2001, and today the US is hated around the world even by the United States usual allies. The people around the world don’t hate the American people. They hate the current Bush administration.

It is not the right time to put a black woman in charge of US foreign policy (unless if you are a Jackass.)

It is time to nominate someone for that position the best diplomat that the US has available today for that job. Someone with similar credentials as James A. Baker III – maybe he is not interested in that radioactive job.

In my opinion, today we have an epidemic of “Mediocrity” in the US government in Washington DC.

.
Maybe it is time to change the world pol
written by Guest, July 03, 2005
I personally feel that the world is no longer stable. People feel more threaten than before. Unemployment, lack of education, unwanted children or the street children, exploitation of women and children you name it, the world knows it. The world economic is not stable and at stake, most of the people are living in danger, poverty, hatred, etc......What kind of world are we living in today Ricardo??????? Is'nt it a wonder if a new kind of leadership emerge to challeng those who are in power that perform such brutality to human kind to be brought to justice? But then again, what is justice when there is no hope and people are still living in despair?


Lina
Brazilians are eternal optimists.
written by Guest, July 05, 2005

That is why Brazil is a great country.

Ricardo
Re: Ricardo C. Amaral
written by Guest, July 06, 2005
I agree, very bad choice. However it's a good choice if you are looking for an experienced ass-kisser!

This was also a slap in the face of General Colin Powell. To give his job to someone who couldn't survive 1 minute on the battlefield shows that George W Bush has no honor!

I suspect that George W Bush is the worst President that this country has ever had!

I used to like this guy!
...
written by Guest, July 06, 2005
"Too many good docs are getting out of the business. Too many OB-GYNs aren't able to practice their love with women all across this country." —George W. Bush, Poplar Bluff, Mo., Sept. 6, 2004

SOUNDS LIKE THE VILLAGE IDIOTTTTTTTTTTTTTTTTTT TO ME!
Ricardo C. Amaral
written by Guest, July 07, 2005


.
It is mind-boggling to me that the American people re-elected George W. Bush for president after 4 years of a nightmare.

What kind of people keep an idiot in power when they have a chance to choose someone else - anyone.

.

Bush fell down from this motorbike in Sc
written by Guest, July 07, 2005
Ricardo,

You are absolutely correct. How come Bush is the President of the United States of America. He can't even ride properly on the motorbike. He collided with one police officer in Scotland and the next thing I noticed he was brushing his shoulder with the late Princess Diana ex-Mother in Law.......Queen Elizabeth.
leaders
written by Guest, September 28, 2005
why dont you let god do the talking
every person has his/hers own mind. so whos controling yours ,is it brazils artilry motive to try and start a war with the US you will lose when ever a leader sided with the devil (darkness) blackness and shund the lite (briteness) and took up arms aginst his nabour he has lost aginst the truth the truth is lite
the devil is darkness in your souls the devil is the father of all lies
your desiving your own soul if you side with the lier what profet a manwoman if he gane the whole world and lose his her soul
your mortal live is just a blink, tell me what good have you done for your nabour
leaderor thug are you a bunch of thugs in south America just ichin for a fight or do you lissen to what god has to say
dont be desived from people who say they speak for god
the devil whats power over your hearts do you remember that commandment love your nabour as your self do you love your family then you will love the United States of Americans familys all over the world
We are the world we are the children
written by Guest, October 17, 2005
Peace brother. Let's be optimistic during the world's most darkest hour.
GREAT DEAL BRAZIL
written by Guest, July 03, 2006
SO THATS NICE.......BRAZIL YOU ARE TURNING TO CHINA!!! SO THEY WILL MAKE YOU FLIP FLOPS FOR THE CARIOCAS.. FOR 2 CENTIVOS!! AND YOU WILL SELL THEM TO YOUR OWN PEOPLE FOR 10 U.S...... YOU BRAZILIANNS ARE SUCH ASTUTE BUSINESS MEN!!!!!!! NO WONDER YOU COME IN AS ONE OF THE WORST COUNTRIES RATED FOR FOREIGN INVESTORS!!!! AND THEY WILL EVEN SEND YOU 20 MILLIONS TO OPEN UP CHINESE FOOD RESTAURANTS !!!!! ILLEGALLY OF COURSE!!!!!! CHECK YOUR CARGO CONTAINERS I HEAR VOICES IN THERE!!!!!! AND JUST THINK OF THE AMERICAN PIRATED FAKE GOODS!!!!! MORE BRILLIANCE FROM THE THIRD WORLD!!!!!!!
GREAT DEAL BRAZIL
written by Guest, July 03, 2006
SO THATS NICE.......BRAZIL YOU ARE TURNING TO CHINA!!! SO THEY WILL MAKE YOU FLIP FLOPS FOR THE CARIOCAS.. FOR 2 CENTIVOS!! AND YOU WILL SELL THEM TO YOUR OWN PEOPLE FOR 10 U.S...... YOU BRAZILIANNS ARE SUCH ASTUTE BUSINESS MEN!!!!!!! NO WONDER YOU COME IN AS ONE OF THE WORST COUNTRIES RATED FOR FOREIGN INVESTORS!!!! AND THEY WILL EVEN SEND YOU 20 MILLIONS TO OPEN UP CHINESE FOOD RESTAURANTS !!!!! ILLEGALLY OF COURSE!!!!!! CHECK YOUR CARGO CONTAINERS I HEAR VOICES IN THERE!!!!!! AND JUST THINK OF THE AMERICAN PIRATED FAKE GOODS!!!!! MORE BRILLIANCE FROM THE THIRD WORLD!!!!!!!

Write comment

security code
Write the displayed characters


busy
 
Joomla 1.5 Templates by Joomlashack