Brazzil

it seems Brazil should, like other nations, simply respond to this tragedy because it is the right thing to do, and because it give is an opportunity to chase the "international status to which it so deeply aspires". If Brazil focuses on it's own development, caring for its own poor, improving the quality of life of its own people, eliminating senseless bureaucracy and corruption that plagues the life there, the international status it craves will easily come to it, because it earned it. But if it keeps jumping to desperately claim it's place on the world's stage, it is going to cause more problems than gain admiration. Take the case of Lula hugging the Iranian dictator and striking economic deals with him. Shame on Lula and Brazil for this. That was a pathetic attempt make a mark on the world stage. Most democratically minded, peace-loving people were sickened by it. And in the case of Haiti, it is time for all people to put aside their egos and just work for the good of the Haitians. The recent clamour and crying about the US invading Haiti is silly talk that only makes Brazil look like "sour grapes". The Brazilian military was angry because the US did not consult them about taking over the airport. But in fact, the Haitians invited the US to do so. Brazil and Brazilians seem desperate to try to vilify the US, but such antics in Haiti only makes them look silly. The US government and people have given generously to support Haiti, as I guess Brazil is doing as well. Why try to slander our good intentions and deeds there?

-- troubled --
Take the case of Lula hugging the Iranian dictator and striking economic deals with him. Shame on Lula and Brazil for this.
The US government and people have given generously to support Haiti

My friend, if your were a long-time observer of this forum you might have seen my many concerns about the Haitian situation and the events and relationships that led to Haiti's designation as the poorest nation in the Western Hemisphere. Certainly the blame can be turned to the Haitians themselves, and they do seem to suffer disproportionately their share of natural tragedies, but I ask you to look a little deeper to find out why the first "colonial slave" nation to become "democratically independent" should find itself last in any kind of prosperity. I can only tell you that Haiti indeed suffers in much the same manner that its cousins on the continent of Africa. Why do you suppose that is Haiti's history after 200 years of "independence"?
I also applaud the generosity of the American people in the present catastrophic earthquake, but I only hope that when the generosity is exhausted that the curiosity will begin so everyone can see why independence did not bring peace and prosperity to Haiti.
One of the first statements from the Haitian president after the earthquake was a reminder that 'it was Haiti that helped Venezuela obtain its independence from colonialism'. Perhaps this is where you should begin your research, but I can tell you that the entire history of Haiti is really fascinating and will change your world view.

I don't suppose you understand that Iran is only asking for the same rights accorded to Brazil under international law. The only difference is Iran's position on Israel. In fact the Imperialists want Brazil to give up its rights regarding nuclear materials. Never would they consider asking Israel to conform to ANY type of nuclear agreements or safeguards (never speak of Israel's nuclear materials and then they just don't exist!). Oh, but Israel is a "democracy" and not a threat. They simply have a Palestinian problem. Funny how the Palestinians are the poorest people in the Middle East, kinda like the Haitians. Hhhmmmmmm?!

I also applaud the generosity of the American people in the present catastrophic earthquake, but I only hope that when the generosity is exhausted that the curiosity will begin so everyone can see why independence did not bring peace and prosperity to Haiti.

Well, I hope you will check some facts yourself, and clarify this statement. While I also applaud Brazil for their generous gesture of donating $10M to Haiti, it should be noted the U.S. regularly gives hundreds of millions of dollars to Haiti annually, not counting the money it's citizens give in humanitarian aid through sponsorships, missions, and other charitable entities.

My sincere New Year greetings, Dr.Cata.

My friend, if your were a long-time observer of this forum you might have seen my many concerns about the Haitian situation and the events and relationships that led to Haiti's designation as the poorest nation in the Western Hemisphere.

I don't think this "Troubled" is a long time observer. Anyway, what took you so long to say to the regular ones "I told you so"?

João,
Feliz ano novo , meu amigo e a todas as minhas amigas.

I have no joy this day to even contemplate the suffering of tens of thousands of Haitians, many whom will perish from lack of simple food and water. My heart is broken, but I know that God alone is certain as to why this catastrophic disaster has struck these people whose suffering was already documented as the worst in the hemisphere. I can only hope that people will try to understand how so much has been given to Haiti, both in the public and the private sector, and so little result, after so long. Anyone who understands the Haitian story cannot help but see the results of all the "assistance" given to a people who have been terrorized by too many repressive governments. Never was the foreign assistance to Haiti based upon the performance of its government. Just enough to pay off the strong-man and enough thugs to maintain order. Generation after generation Haiti's people suffered despite generous foreign and private donations. The "foreign aid" by those who never considered, or knew exactly, why that money never found its way to the Haitian people. Never did they ask the Duvaliers where the money went when they knew exactly how much was going into the banks in the US and Europe. Even now, when the US effectively has "occupied" Haiti in this massive humanitarian mission, no one has looked in the pockets of the present Haitian regime and asked it where the last payments have gone. Corruption has been the single worse affliction of Haitian suffering. It has been going on for too long without any outcry from those who support this corruption under the disguise of "foreign aid".
The NGO's and private charities have been in Haiti for generations and yet they have been unable to change the culture of corruption which flows from the top. Their heroic efforts have been only rewarded with more suffering that they never imagined. So it is that they should see that their efforts have no significant effect when their best efforts only allow the continued cover-up of the actual conditions in Haiti despite their best efforts to fix the people. They cannot fix what is wrong with the society which has been directed by those bought and payed for with the money of foreigners. Haitian culture has not died and some people are seen to even celebrate life again in the midst of unimaginable suffering. Perhaps there is a new opportunity for Haiti to reclaim it long-lost freedom with so many eyes now watching.

Part of politics. In fact, corruption is one of the main reasons many enter into politics. In every government and every country, including all of the "developed" nations.

I can only think of one politician in my lifetime who I believe was totally honest and incorruptible. His name is Tom Osborne and he is a hero to the people who know him. This man served two terms as a U.S. congressman and found out it is and was impossible to change the spots on the leopard, or to co-exist with the leopard, hence he did not run for his third term. In his first two candidacies, he was not even opposed, as the other party did not care to waste their money trying to beat him. They knew it was impossible.

Any place you find large sums of money, there the vultures will gather. It's just a fact of life. Just look at the banking industry, the government of Brasilia, or the Red Cross and their handling of the Katrina disaster. Everyone involved in these cases, at least those high enough to have the ability, has robbed as much of the money as they thought they could get away with.

This fact is no different for Haiti than it is for Brazil, the U.S., Venezuela, Israel, or any other nation.

The difference is, the citizens of these other countries have the ambition needed to rise and fight for what they want, or what they believe they need. The Haitians have learned the same thing the Native North Americans have learned. It's easier to just sit and do nothing and exist off of the efforts of others. They are content with what they are given, and don't care to go to the trouble to do any better. This has been true for a couple hundred years, and it will probably be true for the next couple hundred years.

João,Feliz ano novo , meu amigo e a todas as minhas amigas.

Thank you and it is really good to hear from you, though under unexpected and tragic circumstances. I am aware of your compassion towards the tiny country of Haiti.

I am not sure what the objective of this article: To start a pissing contest between Brasil and the U.S. or question the supposed aspirations of Brasil to assume an active leadership in the world? Of course, I could make out by reading the national newspapers that there is a big difference between what the Military officials and our politicians say. The Brasilians like many other smaller countries like Jordon, Sri.Lanka, etc had their troops already in Haiti when the earthquake hit. It was really a "peacekeeping" mission and not a reconstruction job, they were on. As you may recall, the Brasilians lost many military and civilian personnel. So IMHO, it became a humanitarian rescue mission, conducted by several countries. Even a couple of our officers have acknowledged that the U.S. being closer and having resources took the initiative to reopen the airport and they didn't mind. Even as we speak, both the countries are cooperating with each other to help the victims.

As for aspiring for world leadership, I am not sure if this calamity should be used as an excuse. It is very easy for Mr.Thomaz Azevedo to write:

In the face of such a raw tragedy, Brasília must show that it can not only talk the talk, but is also prepared to embrace a leadership role. Its readiness to rise to this challenge may be a signal of Brazil's maturity as a regional leader, but this may also be far from sufficient.

The question is whether the Brasilian society wants to get into another fiasco. Only the time will tell.

-- Ricky March --
The Haitians have learned the same thing the Native North Americans have learned. It's easier to just sit and do nothing and exist off of the efforts of others. They are content with what they are given, and don't care to go to the trouble to do any better. This has been true for a couple hundred years, and it will probably be true for the next couple hundred years.

So we give license now to corruption and genocide for political expediency? It is now acceptable to practice this behavior for what reason and to what end. Do you not remember that every time the Haitians tried to change their government democratically they were met with the same violence used to overthrow Mr. Aristide? US troops "escorting" him out of his own country "for his own protection" from those who were supplied weapons by US operatives in the region, and facilitated with the not-so-covert assistance of the Dominican Republic?
The genocide of Native Americans still is not recognized as an example of worst inhumanities every committed on Earth.

So we give license now to corruption and genocide for political expediency? It is now acceptable to practice this behavior for what reason and to what end. Do you not remember that every time the Haitians tried to change their government democratically they were met with the same violence used to overthrow Mr. Aristide? US troops "escorting" him out of his own country "for his own protection" from those who were supplied weapons by US operatives in the region, and facilitated with the not-so-covert assistance of the Dominican Republic?
The genocide of Native Americans still is not recognized as an example of worst inhumanities every committed on Earth.

LOL . . . I'm not sure where you got the idea anyone is giving license to corruption. Personally, I deplore dishonesty and corruption, bu the truth is, where the corpse lies, there the vultures will gather. Sorry if you disagree with the statement, but it's true, and it's true everywhere. In your country and mine. I do take comfort in the knowledge and understanding that those who practice such things will eventually suffer the consequences.

I could write all day of infamous cases of corruption in your country or mine. And you know I speak the truth whether you care to admit it or not.

But . . . there is a cure for such things, if a society has the stomach to implement the cure. It has been done, and will be done again. Whether the Haitians have what it takes to overcome this atrocity or not depends only on them. Neither the U.S. or Brazil can do it for them, and recent efforts by the U.S. to "establish fair democracies" in other countries have proven that.

I do not believe the U.S. has purely philanthropic goals in Haiti, nor do I believe it of Brazil. Everyone is in this thing for their own gain. On the other hand, I believe many of the private contributions to this relief effort from everywhere in the world are in fact in the spirit of love.

Anyone who thinks otherwise is only fooling themselves, no matter where they reside.

The genocide of Native Americans still is not recognized as an example of worst inhumanities every committed on Earth.

Just depends on who you talk to. Many people do in fact consider this one of the greatest atrocities in U.S. history. I have lived near some of the poorest reservations in the U.S., and find their living conditions to be deplorable, but only they can rise above this. No one can do it for them.

I could write all day of infamous cases of corruption in your country or mine.

Sorry to butt in. What country do you come from?

BTW, I did read about Tom Osborne. Quite impressive Resume. If the world has just 10% of elected officials of his caliber and integrity, the corruption can be controlled. I honestly believe that corruption is insidious, cancerous and one of the many reasons for keeping a country eternally underdeveloped.

Take the case of Lula hugging the Iranian dictator and striking economic deals with him.

Lula probably learned his lessons watching the U.S. Presidents hugging Shah Reza Pallavi.

Lula has learned many things from what he has seen the U.S. politicians doing over the years. But . . . he takes his orders from the same people they did. Very simple . . . do what you're told, and you will be a very rich man. Do otherwise, and you will suffer the consequences. Take JFK for example, oh yeah, and Abe Lincoln, and James Garfield, and Andrew Jackson. And the world is wearing blinders made of their countries flags. When will they wake up, and realize we're all in this together? My opinion? It's not going to happen. people would rather believe the lie, it's easier and makes more sense.

for not acknowledging you question. I don't think of your post as butting in. It's an open forum, and you're welcome to comment on anything I have to say. After all, it's only my opinion formed by my experiences and learning, which are possibly inferior to yours in many instances. I have read several of your posts, and find you to be intelligent and objective on many issues.

My country is the U.S., and to be totally honest, I am not so proud of the way it is being run, nor have I been for a long time now. That's great you bothered to look into who Tom Osborne is. I may know some other people of his caliber of honesty and integrity, but not many who have used their skills, experiences, and knowledge to benefit others less fortunate as he has. I truly believe this man has more integrity than any world leader in my lifetime. Possibly more than all of them put together. That's exactly why he could not successfully integrate into the political machine.

As for the differences between your country and mine, I find that obvious corruption is more generally accepted here in Brazil than it is in the U.S. I don't know why this is, but consider the case of the corrupt government in Brasilia. The case has effectively been closed by the very people who were being investigated, and I am almost certain nothing else will come of it, even though it has been very recent that the President issued a decree naming political corruption to be an atrocity which must be punished severely. I think the term used was "heinous crime". This is why the world yawns when Lula or an important minister issues a loud, bold statement. It's sort of like the boy who cried wolf. After enough false alarms, no one pays much attention.

Like a very smart man once said, "Any time you get to thinking you're someone important, try bossing someone else's dog around."

for not acknowledging you question. I don't think of your post as butting in. It's an open forum, and you're welcome to comment on anything I have to say. After all, it's only my opinion formed by my experiences and learning, which are possibly inferior to yours in many instances. I have read several of your posts, and find you to be intelligent and objective on many issues.

Thanks for clarifying your nationality.Regarding your comment on my posts, I must say that my opinion is formed exactly like yours-experience, curiosity and continuous learning! I have read some posts of yours and one sentence of yours that aroused my curiosity to as your nationality was: "And the world is wearing blinders made of their countries flags".. If we remove those blinders, the world will be more civilized and safer!!

My country is the U.S., and to be totally honest, I am not so proud of the way it is being run, nor have I been for a long time now.

That is an honest comment, Ricky. I have several American friends who feel that way. I always tease them saying that at least they have the luxury of not being obliged to go to the polls to reject the candidates force upon them!

That's great you bothered to look into who Tom Osborne is. I may know some other people of his caliber of honesty and integrity, but not many who have used their skills, experiences, and knowledge to benefit others less fortunate as he has. I truly believe this man has more integrity than any world leader in my lifetime. Possibly more than all of them put together. That's exactly why he could not successfully integrate into the political machine.

Never heard of Tom Osborne until you mentioned. So I decided to google and find out about him. Brasil has some politicians (Technocrats like him, with college degrees) of that caliber, but they have met (or are meeting)the same fate as that like his. They have too much dignity to submit to the "political machine" and become its "Laranjas".

As for the differences between your country and mine, I find that obvious corruption is more generally accepted here in Brazil than it is in the U.S. I don't know why this is, but consider the case of the corrupt government in Brasilia.

Not only corruption, but also nepotism. I think we still continue to have the mentality of a Plantation and a large majority is happy to live under the "benevolent" management of their chosen "overseers".

This is why the world yawns when Lula or an important minister issues a loud, bold statement. It's sort of like the boy who cried wolf. After enough false alarms, no one pays much attention.

We know that the world is Yawning. Does he? I am just curious to know when the next "Round" of Doha "Talks" will start to find out if it is still yawning.

Like a very smart man once said, "Any time you get to thinking you're someone important, try bossing someone else's dog around."

Even the Dog can get upset and bite the self proclaimed "important" person.

-- Ricky March --
Very simple . . . do what you're told, and you will be a very rich man. Do otherwise, and you will suffer the consequences.

You are correct that this is how things have worked for too long. The distinction is in "who is telling you what to do" and the consequences are suffered by entire societies. In a climate where the marketplace has allied itself with thugs and mercenaries the consequences for any disagreement with the status quo is effectively execution. The threat level for those living under completely corrupt governments is immediate and a foot on the neck of the society. When men like Mr. Aristide, democratically elected, will not do what their told, then the only recourse is to expose those who are financing the corruption and violence. It is the same people who supported the corruption and violence of the Shah, and Marcos, and Saddam, and the Duvaliers. These people cannot operate in a climate of truth, and that is why they kill and silence those who try to expose them.

I have lived near some of the poorest reservations in the U.S., and find their living conditions to be deplorable, but only they can rise above this. No one can do it for them.

It sounds wonderful to say the people need to rise above their condition and it is necessary for them to rebel against tyranny so you know about the "killings at Wounded Knee"? You understand that the 2 most corrupt agencies in the US are the Bureau of Indian Affairs and the Bureau of Land Management. Credit Obama with one success having settled for some Indian land for $3 Billion. A case that has been contested since 1887. There are hundreds of other cases that have been delayed and contested to continue the subjugation of certain Native American tribes.

My country is the U.S., and to be totally honest, I am not so proud of the way it is being run, nor have I been for a long time now.

I could not agree more. A great man once said, "freedom is won with the blood of patriots". Now the US Supreme Court has given the green light for corporate sponsorship of the government there is only left for them to introduce their corporate security teams to keep the people in line. The American people, a caring and generous people, are on the verge of discovering that they are not immune to what their government has been doing to others.

Now the US Supreme Court has given the green light for corporate sponsorship of the government there is only left for them to introduce their corporate security teams to keep the people in line.

Private Armies?

Blackwater/XE, Haliburton, Triple Canopy, and many others...some in different corporate disguises, but all linked as quasi-state security forces. Armed foreigners, operating outside the law, with state authority to use deadly force. Nothing personal, this is just business now...money for hired guns. Expensive guns but very necessary to "maintain order".

Do you know why there are necessary for seven bases in Columbia? Well, you can say you saw it here first;
several of the bases are training and coordinating facilities specifically for different countries in Latin America. Mercenaries from Brazil and Argentina might not mix well with those from Chile or Peru, so the US does not want it connected that they are using these bases as staging areas for infiltration of "corporate operatives" into regions of Latin America. Some of the operations will be drug related, but the actual reason for so many is to provide "quick strike" capability throughout Latin America from a source not directly connected to US official action. You will surprisingly find some European forces and certainly the Israelis will be represented considering their interest in the growing Arab and Muslim investments in Latin America.

So that is the reason for seven bases when actually one, or three, or five would be enough.

João: in response to my comment (Take the case of Lula hugging the Iranian dictator and striking economic deals with him.) you say:
Lula probably learned his lessons watching the U.S. Presidents hugging Shah Reza Pallavi.

Yes, of course. Can't argue with that shameful history, and our relations with Iran have suffered ever since. But as they say, two wrongs don't make a right. Anyone who is following the news in Iran now will see that this man is a brutal dictator beating, killing and violent repressing his own people who are peacefully protesting. I believe Lula made a big mistake here, and just as there were consequence for the US in embracing the Shah, I suspect Brazil will sow its own "blowback".
I say this not because its against what the US government wants, but rather because the man is simply a ruthless tyrant. Anyone for justice should be speaking out against his actions. That is why Lula and Brazil seriously disappointed me. Someone also said that Iran is like Brazil in their nuclear aspirations, and that the US wants to limit Brazil as well. I disagree with both statements. Although Brazil and the US seems to be at odds on certain issues, and there are many anti-American attitudes among Brazilians, there are obviously strong positive attitudes between our countries as well. More important, Brazil is not threatening to wipe any country off the map, nor is a war-mongering country. The current leader of Iran is erratic and a "loose canon" , Lula and Brazil have no such posture to other countries. Besides, Brazil doesn't seem to have an interest in nuclear weapons, whereas Iran does. It is not just the US or Israel that is concerned about this, but the entire EU and other surrounding countries.
Lyod Cata: you encourage me to read about the history of Haiti. I have been an avid supporter of a group who has worked there for years (HandsTogether.org that follows a model of development and intervention promoted by Paulo Freire, so I have read quite a bit about the sad history of Haiti, going back to the early rebellion against the French, and continuing with various military and other interventions by the US, as well as propping up the Duvalier regimes. It seems they have paid for the insurrection for centuries. Of course, aid and charity are not the solution for Haiti. It needs a solid economy that will provide jobs for most of the people. I don't really know if this will happen, but hopefully one good thing that may come of this crisis, is that the country will actually get the support to help it climb out of its desperate situation.

Lyod Cata: although I do not think Brazil or any other nation should want to embrace the oppressive regime of Iran, I equally do not condone Israel's repression of the Palestinians. Yet this is another issue. In my opinion, clearly Israel needs to create a two party state, giving full right and autonomy to the Palestinians. I am one of many Americans who does not want the US to continue to support Israel while they oppress the Palestinians. I speak out against Israel's oppression of Israel as well as against Iran's war-mongering and repression of its own people.
Also, I want to commend you on your tone in communicating. Many people on this site who disagree with the US (or anyone for that matter) quickly dump rage and wild hyperbolic comments. your writing is measured and thoughtful, when clearly the US is implicated in a history of supporting dictators in Haiti.

Lyod Cata: Yes, you are right about the hundreds of years of oppression by the US government of native american people. And you are right to point out the recent debacle of the US Supreme Court giving allowing corporations unlimited contributions to politicians, which will is a calamity for the US and democracy. You are also right to point out the recent landmark decision by Obama to settle a major court case with native americans. And I agree with Ricky March about the poor performance of my government recently. My heart is heavy about Haiti, but also, recently, I have been losing all hope in Obama, who seems to be in bed with the big banks, and unwilling to fight for job creation as well as serious healthcare reform. Progressive americans had much higher hopes of him. I don't know if it is a personality of flaw of his, or an ideological difference, but he seems to be trying too much to please the Republicans and he has been unable to boldly fight the banks, or create any initiatives to fight for working or middle class americans. After 8 bitter years of Bush, i am believing more and more that Obama is clearing the path for Sarah Palin as president. All this news saddens me. The world and humanity has so much further to go in its evolution. Obama is no Martin Luther King. We are still so so far from his dream. It is a dark hour for me. I can only retreat and pray for us.

Brazilian troops in armored personnel carriers controlled a tightly packed line of earthquake survivors waiting for food in the broiling sun by firing pepper spray and training their guns on the jostling, rowdy crowd. The line stretched between the partially collapsed National Palace and entirely destroyed Supreme Court.

One soldier loaded a shotgun and returned their taunts by shouting back insults in Creole. Some were offended, others amused at hearing a Brazilian trooper insulting them in their own language.

“They treat us like animals, they beat us but we are hungry people,” said Muller Bellegarde, 30.

Several left without getting food, fearful of the pepper spray, the soldiers, and thugs who were grabbing food from receivers.

Many said they appreciate the international response and under no circumstances want the Haitian government to handle aid deliveries, but suggested Haitian churches could provide more orderly and respectful venues for distributions, with Haitian communities organizing security.

“The help is good but the way they’re doing it is bad. This is anarchy,” Thomas Louis, 40, trying to get rice and oil for his two babies, aged 2 and six months. “This is not aid. This is a way to put people down.”

"Do you know why there are necessary for seven bases in Columbia? Well, you can say you saw it here first;
several of the bases are training and coordinating facilities specifically for different countries in Latin America. Mercenaries from Brazil and Argentina might not mix well with those from Chile or Peru, so the US does not want it connected that they are using these bases as staging areas for infiltration of "corporate operatives" into regions of Latin America. Some of the operations will be drug related, but the actual reason for so many is to provide "quick strike" capability throughout Latin America from a source not directly connected to US official action. You will surprisingly find some European forces and certainly the Israelis will be represented considering their "

while brazil is drowning in a river of imported crack and cocaine, one of the many reasons surly because people like chavez support groups like farc who are tied with the largest drug gangs in rio and sao paulo,we have to hear catas fantacy tales of world domination...

where i can bring in a huge amount of information linking farc with chavez and these drug gangs, where is your proof?

im not going to say anything about haiti, i dont live there, but i live in south america and face the reality of the situation

if that is your take on the columbia bases inviting americans down, then i really question the credibility of your world observations

the whole world is dirty, cata, your one sided portrayal is slanted and skewed

did you know the heavy religois leaders from iran supported the cia coup ?

My heart is heavy about Haiti, but also, recently, I have been losing all hope in Obama, who seems to be in bed with the big banks, and unwilling to fight for job creation as well as serious healthcare reform. Progressive americans had much higher hopes of him. I don't know if it is a personality of flaw of his, or an ideological difference, but he seems to be trying too much to please the Republicans and he has been unable to boldly fight the banks, or create any initiatives to fight for working or middle class americans.

It's very simple to understand this man. Just google "top contributors to Obama campaign", then google "top contributors to McCain campaign". You will find the same names. All international banking corporations. You think the bickering between Obama and Lula is for real? Then tell me, why do they attend the same dinners hosted by the international banking corporations in Britain?

Yes, I know about Wounded Knee, and that is just the tip of the iceberg. What the U.S. government couldn't accompllish with guns, they did with whiskey and smallpox. But my poiint that the Native Americans must take the initiative to overcome their condition is true. I have seen them collect their government checks and spend the entire amount on booze and drugs. This is a choice they must make for themselves. There are many of their numbers trying to change the culture, but it isn't working so well. They have much to overcome, as the blacks did, and still do, but they aren't working together and uniting for their cause.

Then tell me, why do they attend the same dinners hosted by the international banking corporations in Britain?

That is because the participants in the dinner do not wear blinders made out of the flags of their respective countries. They are the true "Citizens of the World". The rest of us not only the use flags,but also the religion, color,race,etc; as blinders. If we understand that we are happier people!

Compassion,honesty,integrity, etc; are the cherished qualities of the middle class in any country. I don't know how this "class" is faring in other countries, but in ours it is getting extinct.

"I don't know how this "class" is faring in other countries, but in ours it is getting extinct."

The cherished qualities of the middle class you point out are no longer something I think you can reasonably associate with that particular socio-economic group. You may find reason to say it still seeems more prevalent / notably characteristic of them in the states but that is something I perceive has been dwindling for a very long time. I do not wish to put you and your small cluster down for having such qualities / continuing to have such qualities but on a broader view across Brazil I suspect it never did develop to any extent and if it did or does it won't flourish. From bottom to top people either have these qualities or they do not. Unfortunately it is not something infectious.

While I appreciate the observations of those "on the ground" and "in the field" with those suffering under the tyranny of state-sponsored terrorism, corporate-sponsored terrorism, and the scourge of drug addiction, I cannot turn a blind eye to the FACT that it is primarily the corruption of agents of the government that allow such practices to exist.
That is true in Iran, USA, Brazil, and Haiti.
Apparently the leadership of all these nations have failed, or do not wish to recognise, the involvement of their own agents in assisting those who perpetrate these practices.
The Iranian mullahs are responsible for the criminal actions of Mr. Ahdmandinajad and his thugs, just as Mr. Obama has inherited the policies of the US government with respect to human rights (allowing Israel to use "cluster bombs" in Lebanon and other internationally banned munitions in Gaza) in many areas of the world. That alliance with state-sponsored terrorism applies again and again in too many parts of the world, and it is only through the lens of history can anyone prevent another instance of putting power in the hands of criminals and thugs. (It is truly unnecessary to argue about the FACT of the US alliances with criminals, thugs, and mass-murderers)
The FARC maybe the primary organisation involved in the Brazilian drug trade, but there are no credible facts to support this charge. If such charges credibility then it can only occur with the approval of the Brazilian government as a threat. Either way, it is the corruption of the Brazilian authorities not to respond and protect the Brazilian people. Evidence of such corruption would suggest Brazil should join US in the use of the Colombian bases where the largest effort to defeat the FARC is being organised. If the FARC are the biggest threat to Brazil then it is only through corruption or lack of evidence to support such a claim. There is certainly some level of corruption in the government with respect to drug trafficking, but to elevate FARC to some existential threat to Brazil is simply nonsense, although the corruption in this area is only indicative of the pervasive corruption throughout the government, which is the REAL threat to Brazilian society.
Lula has a weakness in this regard, specifically with regard to the selection of the French military purchases. He has calculated that French influence will enhance Brazil's stature and ambitions for a seat on the UN Security Council. This also his embrace of the Iranians to cement Brazil's right to nuclear technology. Brazil is in no way prepared to follow the US proposal for Iranian nuclear activities. The embrace of Iran was merely a direct statement on this front no matter what Iran is doing internally with respect to democratic institutions and civil-rights. Even under the present tyranny by the mullahs in Iran the US must continue to negotiate with Iran and Brazil supports those negotiations while not endorsing anything which will impact Brazil's rights and historically met obligations to non-proliferation. Again, it is the internal corruption rather than any external threats that is the greatest danger to Brazilian freedom and independence.
Haiti cannot be designated as anything other than a "failed state". If this was not clear prior to the most recent tragedy then it is certainly obvious today with the destruction of the "infrastructure of oppression" in Haiti built with decades of "foreign aid" by those who turned a blind eye to the corruption financed by foreigners with a "history" of interference in Haiti's freedom and independence.
Where in all this is there any "proof" that the FARC is responsible for the challenges faced by these societies? Where is the hand of Fidel who was the last bogey-man of Latin American?

Is Brazil 'occupying' Haiti also?
These 3 countries appear to think so ...
http://www.breitbart.com/article.php?id=CNG.487a047d4c8abc206da6108458276a4d.81&show_article=1

In the archives of this site are many statements of mine concerning economic and political issues.
Did I not forecast the crisis in the US economy that would result in the destruction of the US middle-class? Did I not envision that middle-class Americans would suffer the same fate, on an adjusted scale, that was faced by the middle-class in Argentina? It could not be otherwise given the lack of real leadership in the US. The smartest guy in the room in the US is simply the guy who can pick your pocket and then condemn you for being a beggar. So it is that those people who are fighting over scraps are defined by mass-media as looters. A designation the media itself has recognised as improper given the situation on the ground.
The tragedy in Haiti has yet to be fully realised. Under the best scenario many thousands of Haitians will continue to die for lack of food, water, and shelter. Perhaps as many as perished in the earthquake. Given the lack of leadership from what remains of the Haitian government it is only the international community that can possibly rescue the Haitian people. From this rescue perhaps a framework for real democratic institutions can be built in Haiti, unlike the last 2 centuries of interference by those committed that Haiti never again assist those who fight for freedom, such as the Haitian assistance to Venezuela in its fight for independence. The history is done. We have only to see what is to be done, not what is said, because for the foreseeable future what is being done in Haiti will involve those most responsible for Haitian reconstruction. Thank God that this will be done openly and the world can judge clearly the result. It is unfortunate that such a catastrophic tragedy had to occur to bring the truth to light.

This also his embrace of the Iranians to cement Brazil's right to nuclear technology. Brazil is in no way prepared to follow the US proposal for Iranian nuclear activities. The embrace of Iran was merely a direct statement on this front no matter what Iran is doing internally with respect to democratic institutions and civil-rights. Even under the present tyranny by the mullahs in Iran the US must continue to negotiate with Iran and Brazil supports those negotiations while not endorsing anything which will impact Brazil's rights and historically met obligations to non-proliferation.

To certain extent, this statement of Lloyd responds to the question of "Troubled" why we are hugging and kissing the "Tyrant" in Tehran who IMHO is nothing but a "Laranja" of the Mullahs. It is not only the question of export of Nuclear Material to Iran, but a promising market for our other products such as passenger aircraft,food, commodities, etc;, which the U.S. can not directly export to them, but we can and in U.S. Dollars. This is called "Pragmatic Diplomacy"!

Lets be honest. If the "Western World" is so concerned about the Human rights violations, we would not be selling to and buying from PRC!!

http://www1.folha.uol.com.br/f...ogas.shtml

http://www.gazetadopovo.com.br/vidaecidadania/conteudo.phtml?tl=1&id=751675&tit=PCC-e-Farc-se-aproximam

the hook up of farc with the pcc , the largest drug gang in sao paulo, and, fernando beira mar, who was one of the largest traficars in rio da janeiro, is very well documented...i have brought in various other lincs showing farc is also involved in other huge drug traficing schemes in the amazonas and middle brazil....

and, i didnt way they were the largest, but are serious players on the scene....where are your lincs to back up your claims of mercanairy training in the columbia bases ?

and that is my point to you, there are much more serious issues on the table than whether the usa is going to invade brazil or start a blackwater campain of executions all over south america...the usa has been seriously uninvovlved in south america...and they are not going to invade brazil or send black water in to kill anybody...that is ridiculas

you may be right about brazil allowing corruption to allow this to happen, i dont expect brazil to rise up and battle farc...i just say, why are people focusing on usa military in columbia bases to try to fight these drug gangs, when farc is raping brazil with tacit support from chavez....also very proven facts

i have done nothing but bring in facts and lincs and wikepedia atatistics showing the usa is a long ways from the leader of world mans inhunamity to man...yet , no one really cares or pays attention,and, conspiricy theories are running amok all the time on this forum

sorry loyld, you have to share the throne of warning us all about the crisis with r amoral and me....i have been screaming to people on forums everywhere in the world that the lowering usa dollar since 2002 was only going to lead to something very horrible

im not going to comment about haiti, i am hardly qualified, so i dont want to put my foot in my mouth...

but , i dont undeerstand the parts internationaly where if the usa is hugging the shah, or, bin laden, or husein, and then they are our enemies, what is the big deal? remember the picture of world war two with roosevelt, churchill and stalin ?

its just the way the world works....its a lot of power plays and politics and hiarchy and violence, and the rich and powerful will always rule over the poor for their own interests....which doesnt justify the wrong things the usa has done, but, i just dont see it as the worst posible power to be on the planet...and, too much focus on only the usa, seriously distorts the reality of the rest of the dirty world we live in...

why arnt you shocked that 1/3 of the population in upper mongolia has gengis kahns genes in their dna? i mean that is some really bad stuff...

besides that, i had a marvelous day in the cabana today....

http://www.gazetadopovo.com.br...-aproximam

Lloyd you are such a leftist babaca, you continually trip over your own rants. Last time I checked today, the American middle class is still hanging in there. Beleaguered, but still able to send ridiculous amounts of aid to Haiti, on the spur of the moment.

The point is Brasil is making a great contribution, and they are not the only ones. They, like the Americans, saw that there wasn't TIME to run some proposals, mandates, or condemnations through the UN, or OAS. If Venezuela, Bolivia, Nicarauga, and YOU think you have the Haiti situation under control, I'm sure the US would be happy to leave.

And remember, Haiti was a French colony- poorly managed and poorly supported for self-rule, just like most of the other French former colonies.

Don't know about Argentina- Chile is making a comeback though, now that they've veered away from socializing everything that had a pulse.

In the archives of this site are many statements of mine concerning economic and political issues.
Did I not forecast the crisis in the US economy that would result in the destruction of the US middle-class? Did I not envision that middle-class Americans would suffer the same fate, on an adjusted scale, that was faced by the middle-class in Argentina?

You get the credit for your predictions and I too get one for insisting to include the Brasilian Middle class also, though its percentage is less than that of U.S.

Now the Venezuelan middle-class is beginning to feel the result of Mr. Chavez's economic policies. The recent "internal" devaluation resulting in practically a 100% tariff on non-essential goods guarantees a backlash against Mr. Chavez's largesse in international affairs. Not that this largess has been totally frivolous. As I have said before; without such aid to the most fragile in the region, many people in several countries would have found themselves on their knees once again before the masters of global economic policies, specifically related to the energy sector. It is without apology that I welcomed Mr. Chavez's charity over the manipulations of the IMF and World Bank. Unfortunately, now the Venezuelan people must pay for overly ambitious policies of the Chavez government. Perhaps Mr. Chavez will pay for his largesse in the democratic manner. Having done the correct thing, in providing aid to those less fortunate, even supplying oil to Americans unable to get any relief from the richest society on Earth, Mr. Chavez will probably pay the price at the polls if not in the streets of Caracas.
It would be better for Mr. Chavez to step down in the next elections and champion candidates that are more technically capable of managing the economy without the interference of foreign money managers. That essentially is why it was correct to nationalise the major Venezuelan industries, which is simply the same thing the US government has done to save its financial industry from collapse. And not the first time the US has nationalised an industry to prevent collapse and in accordance with the best interests of the US people.
I wish Mr. Chavez well in his future endeavours on behalf of the Venezuelan people and those less fortunate around the world, but it is unimaginable that he will survive the middle-class objection to this latest policy in a democratic manner. If he does not respect the wishes of the people he will only justify in the minds of many the reasons for the US bases in the region. This is not a situation solely in Venezuela as Mr. Obama finds himself in much the same predicament (isn't that funny?). However in Mr. Obama's situation he has not helped the poor, but the rich with the same discontent among the American middle-class. Mr. Obama has recognised that his actions may lead to his being a one-term president, perhaps Mr. Chavez will also recognise when it is his time to go.

We here will listen to you Joao but as you are coming from such a paltry diminishing minority position it is certain that you can and will be ignored when convenient. Nice try at climbing the ladder but now it's time for you to assume the correct posture do as your are told and have a cold one!

besides that, i had a marvelous day in the cabana today....

The Sun must have got ya. Otherwise:

1) You wouldn't have sent a link in Portuguese to Dr.Cata 2) You would have never accused him of ever saying that the Yanks are about to invade Brasil.

BUT...BUT.... what he says about the private armies is 100% correct and it even applies to the place where you live. ie; if you are able to connect the dots and commas!

BTW, is DnB continuing his rants in the other thread?

Now the Venezuelan middle-class is beginning to feel the result of Mr. Chavez's economic policies. The recent "internal" devaluation resulting in practically a 100% tariff on non-essential goods guarantees a backlash against Mr. Chavez's largesse in international affairs.

The problem with Col.Chavez, Uncle Fidel and all other "Caudilhos" in LatAm countries is very similar. ie Corruption and Nepotism. Uncle Fidel formed a dynasty and the good Col is following his Uncle´s example. Look at what happened in Venezuela under his watch. Got his Daddy, Brother & a bunch of relatives elected through ballot. Put the fear of Uncle Sam into the minds of his "subjects" and bought armaments from the Russians, blowing up the money from the Oil sales. Now that the economy is in shambles, he wants to close all the TV stations that are not chanting the glories of his misplaced "Revolution". Do you think that the Middle Class will not react? It is not 1959, when his mentor Fidel could hoodwink the peasants.

Hope Putin and Medeledev have allocated the good Col and his entire extended family a happy political asylum in Moscow.

just google up farc and pcc and farc and beira mar, and take your pick...the bottom line is i showed the proof that was sought after and shame on you for not bringing it up yourself because you know darn well this is happening...just like i showed there were nazi attacks in brazil after being called stupid for saying it...

you connect the dots for me , joao,because i see you and me bleleagured by crack cocaine in our neihborhoods, how about those ambulantes on tv recently, yet, some kind of mercenary army i just dont see yet....training to fight this kind of thing, yes, i already talked to a bope guy who trained in the usa...but if you cant come up with a real solution to get the crack out of your neighborhood, i honestely dont know where you are coming from...because its getting thugiar by the month

you can fall for the conspricy theories if you want, joao, im still waiting for some kind of linced up proof i can sink my teeth into to decipher what is being implied here...not that just any linc is valid anyway..but it would be a start

yeah, it looks bad for chavez doesnt it loyld ? he is closing up tv stations and making horrid business desicians....if he shuts down the oposition and not give them a voice...how can the people really know what is going on ? how can they really vote him out of office?

We here will listen to you Joao but as you are coming from such a paltry diminishing minority position it is certain that you can and will be ignored when convenient.

I would rather be ignored, Simpleton. Like an ex-President of ours once said famously "I would rather prefer the smell of the horses to that of human beings".

I don't feel the need to castigate or demean Mr. Chavez. I think he, in his own way, has done a service to his people and many others around the world. That he accomplished anything given the constant drum-beat and attempted violence and threats of violence throughout his time in office. This is not new in the context of Latin American experience given 50 years of such behaviour against Mr. Castro. Certainly if you find yourself in such a situation you would obtain advice from someone who has had half a century of experience in such matters.
Do not misunderstand my position that the Venezuelan people, as a whole, are much better off under the Chavez government than they have been in many years. The resources of Venezuela and the direction of Venezuela are better in the hands of the people than the "private sector" with its foreign alliances to fill the pockets of the caudillos and their cronies.
As I said, Mr. Obama presently suffers from the same dilemma for filling the pockets of the bankers and other Wall Street manipulators. On both sides, left and right, there are issues of fairness and the ownership of national resources. On the whole the Venezuelan people have been better served by Mr. Chavez than the American people were served by Mr. Bush. This does not sound logical and we have yet to see the final outcomes, but the American people have lost not just money but their homes and jobs while the bankers continue to feed on huge bonuses for not completely destroying the US and world economies. Yes, in China, these greedy capitalists would have been lined up and shot, and this is not what is happening in what are moderately leftist countries throughout Latin America. The repercussions of the greedy Wall Street barons have caused pain and suffering throughout the world. I was just hearing at Davos how the people of Iceland were impacted by the US financial meltdown. The US thinks they have saved their economy but the imbalance of debt by Americans to their ability to earn is simply too large. If they cannot extract some of "your" wealth, meaning the resources of Latin America, then the game is up. It is the same in the relationship with Europe and Africa. Mr. Chavez is committed to prevent this theft of these resources and the inheritance of the people. Historically, his position has been met with assassination and military threats, so the scenario has not changed, just the characters are different. The only question now is how fast Latin America can adapt to new world realities outside the framework of the Empire. I cannot believe intelligent Venezuelans want to move back to the American model which is still in the grip of those committed to greed over the best interests of the American people.
IMHO the Cuban people, as a whole (society and culture), are better off than they would have been without the leadership of Fidel Castro. No matter the accusations of riches accumulated by the regime, it is still the Cuban people who are the owners of the island. The American children are born into debt borrowed by people who have no interest beyond their own gratification, elevation, and greed. If this is what they do to their own people what opportunities are they proposing for others to follow their example. When the world was ignorant and only heard what you said, it was simple to say one thing and do another. Now the whole world sees what you do and it is not easy to caress with one hand and steal with the other. That game is past and the only way back is over the bodies of too many people. (But maybe not...seven bases are not the amount to suggest a non-violent agenda on the road forward).

the people are better off under castro ? when the biggest thing they always say that was wrong with battista was that prostiturion was rampant...and now , you go to the gringo hotels and prostiturion is rampant...but they can read...

that is ok, reveal the true nature of where you are coming from...

no , with all the truth you are saying about the usa, id rather have that than the life opresion of the castro brothers...god, all the south american dictators are gone, but not cuba...

im glad to hear the brunt truth of your agenda...

just an aside to you, loyld, i apreciete your empathey for the hard working , impoverished people of the world, i have great empathy for the people of the world also...i also want them to buck the system some kind of way...except the violent revolution of che or fidel, or any kind of substituting one way of doing things with a much more oppresive way of doing things....i dont want any part of that, because it doesnt really help the people we feel empathy for....it just guarentees we all suffer equaly

Iran — Iran on Thursday executed two men accused of involvement in an armed anti-government group, as the public prosecutor announced that new death sentences have been issued against opposition activists involved in protests over June's disputed presidential election.

This is the regime Brazil has aligned itself with. Not much more I can say about it ! ! !

I don't feel the need to castigate or demean Mr. Chavez.

Dr.Cata,

I would never ever feel tempted to castigate or demean Col. Chavez nor Uncle Fidel knowing full well your great admiration for them as well as your sense of humor (especially the latter). However, it would have been more clarifying if you had listed the great "services", the good Col made to the people "around the world).

Obviously you do not read Portuguese and if you do, you would have read the links our distinguished fellow blogger ASP provided and given your comment. Or may have included the Chavez´s "friendly" relationship with FARC and their other associates as the one of his many contributions to the welfare of his neighbors.

Ah, I forgot to tell ya that Col.Chavez´s buddy Mr.Zelaya is still in our embassy in Tegucigalpa and unlikely to vacate it soon!!

Sadly, there is more . . .

The two men, who were hanged before dawn Tuesday, did not appear to be connected to the postelection protests – at least one of them was arrested before the election, according to his lawyer.

But state media depicted the two as part of the protest movement, a sign of how the government has lumped together many of its enemies with the political opposition amid its postelection crackdown. The media's depiction of the executions may aim to intimidate the opposition ahead of new street demonstrations expected in February.

In a further move likely aimed at cowing protesters, Tehran's prosecutor announced that five people have been sentenced to death for involvement in the most recent major demonstrations, on Dec. 27. That day saw the worst violence of postelection crackdown, with at least eight people killed in clashes between police and protesters and hundreds arrested.

The new verdicts raise to nine the number of people sentenced to death for involvement in protests, said the prosecutor, Abbas Jafari Dowlatabadi.

-- Asp --
when the biggest thing they always say that was wrong with battista was that prostiturion was rampant...and now , you go to the gringo hotels and prostiturion is rampant...
i also want them to buck the system some kind of way...except the violent revolution of che or fidel, or any kind of substituting one way of doing things with a much more oppresive way of doing things....i dont want any part of that, because it doesnt really help the people we feel empathy for....it just guarentees we all suffer equaly

Out of your own head comes some truth...I'm impressed! So what I have been saying many years that the gringo's bring bars and prostitution while the Castro's export schools and doctors is getting through to you. Yet you prefer these gringo's because they are what? Believe me, the gringo's have no interest in you other than to screw your women or pick your pockets. Think there is nothing in your pocket? They will remove the dirt under your feet to find anything to make a profit and if you complain they bury you in the hole because they have already paid some caudillo for your property and your life. That appears to be what you prefer.
You SAY you want them to 'buck the system', but apparently you don't want anyone to get hurt. This is about freedom and the price of that freedom has throughout history been paid for with the blood of patriots. It is clear that the Empire can buy many men with guns (http://colombiareports.com/col...aq-un.html)just as they bought Osama to fight the Russians and Saddam to fight the Iranians. It is what they do, and they are having trouble because they no longer can hide what they do (http://www.ciadrugs.com/). Too many people are connecting the dots now. Too many people are beginning to understand why Haiti is a "failed state" and from everything you profess it appears you would prefer that for Cuba, Venezuela, and Brazil, as long as the whores are friendly and the cervesa is cold.
http://www.globalresearch.ca/PrintArticle.php?articleId=7310
http://www.copacabana.info/rio-de-janeiro-drugs-poverty.html
BTW, I did read that Portuguese link and found it quite funny that the code name was Operation Snake. You must be proud of that link

João,
I did read the links that Asp submitted and I have a few of my own that are presently being moderated. I did find it funny that the Portuguese link reference to 'Operation Snake'. I'm sure that is what attracted our friends attention to get him out of the cabana and share. I did not disagree with his assertion of FARC drug dealings, nor would I disagree that the Taliban Islamists use drugs as a way to raise money. The question for me is why the CIA is involved in drug dealings? I have sent links but they are in "moderation" by the site, so I await their appearance or I will retry to send them later.

With Fidel ill and retired, where is the voice of Latin American south of the American border. If not for the bellicosity of Mr. Chavez, then Mr. Lula would not be seen as such a leftist-moderate. Mr. Chavez, besides his generosity in energy even to the American people, has given Mr. Lula room to oppose the Empire in a diplomatic fashion. Lula has become less of a timid leftist because of Chavez. Communism has been defeated now for a generation. What do the Capitalists bring that is beneficial to the people?
The Honduran episode is a tragedy for those people. Everyone in Latin America knows that. The Empire has stalled and bluffed until the fight was out of Mr. Zelayas supporters. Together with the armed forces and imported mercenaries who are cleaning up the remnants of Mr. Zelaya core supporters.
I am ok with this for now because what Mr. Zelaya accomplished was to expose the tentacles of imperialism reaching out from Washington. That for me is his legacy. He has exposed the corruption and I hope he continues in this work. It is dangerous without a doubt for him wherever he goes because he knows the truth and truth-tellers are generally murdered for the truth, just as the reporter investigating the Brazilian corruption was killed recently and there will never be the shame among Brasileiros that this man died for the truth. It is sadly too common.

-- Asp --
when the biggest thing they always say that was wrong with battista was that prostiturion was rampant...and now , you go to the gringo hotels and prostiturion is rampant...
i also want them to buck the system some kind of way...except the violent revolution of che or fidel, or any kind of substituting one way of doing things with a much more oppresive way of doing things....i dont want any part of that, because it doesnt really help the people we feel empathy for....it just guarentees we all suffer equaly

Out of your own head comes some truth...I'm impressed! So what I have been saying many years that the gringo's bring bars and prostitution while the Castro's export schools and doctors is getting through to you. Yet you prefer these gringo's because they are what? Believe me, the gringo's have no interest in you other than to screw your women or pick your pockets. Think there is nothing in your pocket? They will remove the dirt under your feet to find anything to make a profit and if you complain they bury you in the hole because they have already paid some caudillo for your property and your life. That appears to be what you prefer.
You SAY you want them to 'buck the system', but apparently you don't want anyone to get hurt. This is about freedom and the price of that freedom has throughout history been paid for with the blood of patriots. It is clear that the Empire can buy many men with guns (http://colombiareports.com/col...aq-un.html)just as they bought Osama to fight the Russians and Saddam to fight the Iranians. It is what they do, and they are having trouble because they no longer can hide what they do (http://www.ciadrugs.com/). Too many people are connecting the dots now. Too many people are beginning to understand why Haiti is a "failed state" and from everything you profess it appears you would prefer that for Cuba, Venezuela, and Brazil, as long as the whores are friendly and the cervesa is cold.

http://www.globalresearch.ca/PrintArticle.php?articleId=7310

http://www.copacabana.info/rio-de-janeiro-drugs-poverty.html

http://www.bluebloggin.com/2007/07/14/pentagon-pays-latin-americas-mercenaries-less-in-iraq/

-- Asp --
when the biggest thing they always say that was wrong with battista was that prostiturion was rampant...and now , you go to the gringo hotels and prostiturion is rampant...
i also want them to buck the system some kind of way...except the violent revolution of che or fidel, or any kind of substituting one way of doing things with a much more oppresive way of doing things....i dont want any part of that, because it doesnt really help the people we feel empathy for....it just guarentees we all suffer equaly

Out of your own head comes some truth...I'm impressed! So what I have been saying many years that the gringo's bring bars and prostitution while the Castro's export schools and doctors is getting through to you. Yet you prefer these gringo's because they are what? Believe me, the gringo's have no interest in you other than to screw your women or pick your pockets. Think there is nothing in your pocket? They will remove the dirt under your feet to find anything to make a profit and if you complain they bury you in the hole because they have already paid some caudillo for your property and your life. That appears to be what you prefer.
You SAY you want them to 'buck the system', but apparently you don't want anyone to get hurt. This is about freedom and the price of that freedom has throughout history been paid for with the blood of patriots. It is clear that the Empire can buy many men with guns (http://colombiareports.com/col...aq-un.html)just as they bought Osama to fight the Russians and Saddam to fight the Iranians. It is what they do, and they are having trouble because they no longer can hide what they do (http://www.ciadrugs.com/). Too many people are connecting the dots now. Too many people are beginning to understand why Haiti is a "failed state" and from everything you profess it appears you would prefer that for Cuba, Venezuela, and Brazil, as long as the whores are friendly and the cervesa is cold.

(http://www.globalresearch.ca/P...cleId=7310)

(http://www.copacabana.info/rio...verty.html)

(http://www.bluebloggin.com/200...s-in-iraq/)

first of all, i never said the cia hadnt dealt drugs...but this guys claims have a lot of loose change floating around, like trying to put blame on america for turning down missles that then got to bin laden...ill do some reseach on rodney stich...remember, beira mar was caught directly with the farc, its not a rumor or fabrication, its fact, and this guy is making a lot of claims that arnt proven true ...

mercanaries in iraq ? im not surpresed , and that even latin american countries are some of the places people are getting hired...its obvious to anyone that privat secruity on all levals is a fact of life

what i maintain is that there is no plans on the table to invade brazil and many other countries...there is serious reason to be vigilant that a guy like chavez could go wild and do something stupid to retain his paower....that could be a real scenario

and, i never supported the usa war on drugs, i think it always has been one of the biggest hypocracies on the planet...ive always known this was dirty...

but all of that has nothing to do with the route that has been heavily opened from colombia, bolivia, paraguay and venezuela ,coming through brazil heading for europe...it has turned brazil into a much more violent country in the last 8 years, and has wrecked havoc on innocent peoples lives....and people being alarmed by some pending usa invasion and not paying attention to the reality of what is happening in thier every day lives is where i see the hypocracy

if armed conflict ever does break out between chavez and colombia, for the usa will do it can to get troops from south america to fight the war and support their side from a distance....

but i dont beleive they will start that conflict...i just dont see the usa as activly going about to promote war down here isnpite of its history and what is happening in iraq now....i do see them looking out for their interests. and trying to make allies ...with the cold war caveatt always lurking in the back ground no matter what

if sarah palin gets elected it might be a differant story ...

take out the "for" read " the usa will do whatever it can..."

and thanks joao for supporting my post

That for me is his legacy. He has exposed the corruption and I hope he continues in this work. It is dangerous without a doubt for him wherever he goes because he knows the truth and truth-tellers are generally murdered for the truth, just as the reporter investigating the Brazilian corruption was killed recently and there will never be the shame among Brasileiros that this man died for the truth. It is sadly too common.

What's the name of the reporter??

I am ok with this for now because what Mr. Zelaya accomplished was to expose the tentacles of imperialism reaching out from Washington. That for me is his legacy. He has exposed the corruption and I hope he continues in this work.

No Dr.Cata, I am afraid you were not following up this "Incident" closely. Mr.Zelaya tried to change the Constitution of Honduras to get himself reelected and the Judiciary and Legislative branches of that country removed him power. Fine, they overdid it by ordering the Army to wake him up in the middle of the night, put him on board a plane and banish his out of the country. They could have kept him in the country and put him on trial.

The result was a big commotion from all the members of OAS, including from PBO and HC who considered it as a coup and hence unacceptable. The interim government did not want Zelaya back and HC changed her mind (probably, because of the pressure from the Ex-pat Hondurans there). We didn't take the cue and insisted that Mr.Z be brought back to Honduras.There comes the Modern Bolivar giving advice to Mr.Z to come back to Tegucigalpa (with his help) and feel free to get into our embassy, where he still remains.

Of course, during your absence from this blog, I got lots of criticisms from various people for saying that it was not a coup, but the impeachment of the President of Honduras. Contrary to what happened in Honduras, Venezuelan and Bolivian Congress and the Judiciary branch seem to be happy not to question the aspirations of their respective Presidents to remain in power eternally.

It is dangerous without a doubt for him wherever he goes because he knows the truth and truth-tellers are generally murdered for the truth,

I doubt his life is in danger. He is supposed to go spend a few weeks in Dominican Republic and Mexico and quite likely to move to Brasil. Once he is here, he is among his "amigos"!

BTW, I noticed that you are very fond of Latin American "Caudilhos". I bet you were a great fan of Peron too.

From inside of Venezuela. I don't think he should be so much focused on the bases in Columbia as he should be with stabilizing his own country. This friend of Lula's will stop at nothing to remain in control. Lula seems to have forgotten how it was to live under such authoritarian rule.

Venezuelan Protests: Police Fire Tear Gas At Anti-Chavez Protesters

Chavez accused students of trying to stir up violence as a means of destabilizing his government.

"There are some attempting to set fire to the country," Chavez said in a televised address Thursday. "What are they seeking? Death."

He said unidentified assailants armed with assault rifles shot at National Guard troops Wednesday in the city of Merida, where two soldiers suffered gunshot wounds. A military barracks in the city of Barquisimeto was also attacked, he said.

Chavez vowed to crack down on street demonstrations that turn violent.

"We cannot permit this," he said. "The state and the government must impose authority."

Two youths were killed in Merida on Monday – a day after the protests began. Dozens of people have been injured during the week's demonstrations.

1) Haiti is a "failed state" due primarily to direct US intervention and support for oppressive regimes in that nation. It is time for that to end.

2) The CIA has profited more from drug trafficking, and not just monetarily, throughout the hemisphere and the world than the FARC. This has been going on since Vietnam, was verified during Iran-Contra, and continues in Afghanistan with direct links to Mr. Karzai's brother, who is employed by the agency.

3) The situation in Honduras is settled for the present and near future with the ruling oligarchy back in control of the government and the streets. There are several things that were 'learned' from this episode;
(a) The constitution and legal system of Honduras has been made public to all the world. It could have been used legitimately to remove Mr. Zelaya from office, but instead he was summarily removed by the military and put into exile. The only reason he was not executed was the sensitivity of the US to the image throughout the region, given the ouster of Mr. Aristide under similar circumstances.
(b) During the crisis many foreign diplomatic, government, and commercial interests became directly involved in the crisis. Some in support of Mr. Zelaya and some against. (I do not list them here as it is expected that everyone can readily access this information). However, it is quite clear that the majority of Latin American governments supported Mr. Zelayas reinstatement, and it is equally clear that a coalition of US government and commercial interests were actively involved in the ouster of Mr. Zelaya. The US governments 'official' position was to respect Honduran sovereignty while at the same time doing nothing to restore the legitimate government. There was communication between Mr. Obama and Mr. Lula to the effect of settling the issue within the region. At the same time Mr. Obama did nothing to discourage the US government and commercial entities from bolstering the illegitimate Honduran leaders. This is all documented by the statements and travels of several senior US congressional members and the corporations with interests in Honduras. It is the exposure of the direct US involvement and the people involved that is of primary interest for the future. Latin America will see these same people again under similar circumstances.

(4) The seven Columbian bases are being organized with the intent to train and equip mercenaries of different nationalities throughout the region,to include European partners, and the Israelis. The requirement for seven distinct sites was to cloak from certain groups the activities of the other groups. It is quite understandable that the Israelis do not want to mingle with the French and British, just as the Colombians and Venezuelans would be operationally seperated from the Brazilians and Argentinians, as is the case with the Chileans and the Peruvians. The requirement for this operation could not be carried out in the US for 2 reasons; proximity to targets and operational security. These 'black ops' and their operators could not be directly associated with 'official' government sanctions. In fact, some of these operators would be denied entry into the US for past activities and if found in the US would compromise the military agenda for Plan Columbia.

"There is profit in chaos". It is not necessary to invade a nation to bring down a government and subjugate its people. There has not been an invasion in Africa for many years yet the constant chaos throughout the continent keeps the people in turmoil and allows the resources to be extracted with minimal casualties even under the worst regimes or human circumstances. That is the model for 21st Century capitalism. It has worked for the last 6 centuries and there is no reason that it should not continue to work. It is on that basis that the US economy is being revitalized under the same structures without significant change.

Lula seems to have forgotten how it was to live under such authoritarian rule.

When and where did he live under such rule,Cap´n?

it sais brazzil ...and i can tell you with all certainy that the coke and crack flooding into brazil has nothing to do with the cia...and it is having a horrible affect on society...

the cia dealing more drugs than farc is debatable, all the info you have brought in is not fact...it is fact beira mar was caught with farc...and that farc had weapons sold to venezuela and huge information concerning chavez hook ups with farc on the computor found in the destroyed farc camp in equador..and proof farc takes refuge in venezuela...

you say people are better off in cuba than in the usa....why would you live in the usa one day longer if that was true ?because you have the right to say anything you want

i like freedom, in brazil or the usa, and im also aware im not really free in any country in the world...but i like the freedom i have in brazil and the usa much more than having a dictator wave his hands and have mandates that tells everyone what they have to do...north korrea, cuba, iran, venezuela,china,the taliban,no , i dont want any part of their domination of what the people have to think, do , eat,what doctor they have to see, what they can do on the internet, how they can protest, what music they can listen too, what women have to wear etc

-- asp--
i like freedom, in brazil or the usa, and im also aware im not really free in any country in the world...but i like the freedom i have in brazil and the usa much more than having a dictator wave his hands and have mandates that tells everyone what they have to do...north korrea, cuba, iran, venezuela,china,the taliban,no , i dont want any part of their domination of what the people have to think, do , eat,what doctor they have to see, what they can do on the internet, how they can protest, what music they can listen too, what women have to wear etc

Well said. Yet do not make the mistake of thinking that those freedoms we enjoy do not have a price that impacts millions beyond our shores. Understand that the so-called 'just' society which we enjoy has been built through no less suffering and destruction than those of authoritarian regimes. It has been said that "a beneficial dictator is preferable to a corrupt democrat" and this is the question as Latin America transits a very critical stage in the development of the hemisphere. The capitalists will employ the same tools as the communists, and some worse, in their pursuit of greater wealth. They will do it under the disguise of freedom while disrupting entire societies to enhance their ability to profit. If there is no profit motive then they have no incentive to participate in anyones freedom or progress. Not even their own peoples.
Given the events of 9/11 and the collapse of the US economy we can all see the result that the capitalists have completely subverted the US government. On the backs of the American people with a mountain of debt, borrowed from anyone who will lend, even those who are ideologically opposed to their freedoms. Do not ever believe that these capitalists, under the cloak of democracy and freedom, have anything else on their agenda but a profit, by any means necessary! Together with agents of the US government, which they will soon completely control, they are able arm themselves with the military capabilities necessary to capture foreign markets and resources. No matter that 'US combat forces' are leaving Iraq because the network of private armies and militias still maintain the commercial(oil) operations. The financiers and the 'guns for hire' effectively are the only winners in that war. The US government has borrowed a TRILLION dollars since 9/11 to finance the entire cost of an unnecessary war and each step along the way money has changed hands to the benefit of bankers, the military-industrial complex, and the growth of corporate armies. That is what fuels conspiracy theories that have yet to diminish and if anything have grown since the attacks in the US. All the death and destruction 'forced' upon the Iraqi people, from the US involvement in the Iran-Iraq War(providing Saddam with WMD) to the US-Iraq War(Iraqis and Americans will suffer for many years the effects of depleted uranium munitions) has not improved the lives of the average Iraqi, and this has been polled many times.
So much for the humanity aspect. We understand, from the capitalist perspective, profits 'by any means necessary' is the 'prime directive' and humanity is not on the profit/loss ledger. In fact, they are no better than the communists, and in fact have a longer history of barbaric behaviour in search of profit. The Europeans and the British Commonwealth are still the major benefactors of African people and resources. They are about to get military reinforcements from the US with the recent creation of Africom(Africa Command) by the US military. We already know that Plan Columbia is directly tied to SoCom(Southern Command) as the military arm of the capitalist agenda to do to Latin America what the Europeans have done in Africa. They have no reason to believe they will fail in this because their allies such as Mr. Uribe and others in the region have been bought and paid for which is much less expensive than even considering how the Columbian people feel about becoming the staging area for the next 'capitalist great leap forward'.

Make no mistake, they must have those assets of people and resources to continue their game, and they will corrupt or kill anyone who attempts to prevent them from getting what they now 'must' have to save their own economies. For them, that is the way to progress. Frankly, I do not find a great deal of difference from the communist approach except for the slick PR used to justify the rape and destruction of societies in the name of freedom.
Enjoy your freedom, as I do mine, but don't ever think that it is not without cost to others, who continue to give their lives, property, and livelihoods so you can relax in the cabana with hot women and cold beer.

I will not give you the name of the reporter. How many reporters have been killed in Brazil last year for investigating official corruption?

...and don't stop there...how many investigations are stopped officially by the Brazilian courts? Perhaps my friend João da Silva can help you in this area, but perhaps in our 'free society' it would attract an unpleasant outcome to catalog the investigations and murders tied to official corruption. We must each calculate our own vulnerability when discussing information that is prohibited(much like in communist societies), but I know João is more knowledgeable in this area than he lets on, and probably with good reason

but I know João is more knowledgeable in this area than he lets on, and probably with good reason

You betcha! Our buddy ASP too, though he is a bit less diplomatic than I am. Perhaps Lima doesn't read the national newspapers.

how many investigations are stopped officially by the Brazilian courts?

I underestimated your capacity to read Portuguese, Dr.Cata. You must be talking about the famous gag order imposed by the court on "Estadão" on the case of the President of our senate. You must know that the censorship on that particular newspaper has completed 6 months.

BTW, the last post of yours is very interesting. Your views coincide with the comments made by " Captnamerica" under the artice:

http://www.brazzil.com/compone...razil.html

All the death and destruction 'forced' upon the Iraqi people, from the US involvement in the Iran-Iraq War(providing Saddam with WMD) to the US-Iraq War(Iraqis and Americans will suffer for many years the effects of depleted uranium munitions) has not improved the lives of the average Iraqi, and this has been polled many times.

Well said. The puppet regime hanged Saddam Hussein in 2006 under GWB´s watch and their lives didn't improve and now it hanged "Chemical Ali" and PBO didn't intervene either. I don't think that it is going to better the lives of the Iraqis either.

In your previous post, you had made a comment about Zelaya not being hanged. There is a difference between hanging Zelaya and those WOGs in the middle-east and I bet you know what it is.

Hopefully, you will join us in the other thread.

of course there are big money interests being fought over around the world...humans are hot wired to do this...

you cant paint the other side (whether sharia law advocates or chavez and fidel) as innocent in this world drama... they are just trying to build their agendas also....

hype capatalism is horrible...i beleive in capatilism with a concience. and i beleive this communist manifesto of workers unite and pick up arms and fight for the revolution as one of the biggest blow hard faults of its agenda...

people easily have the power to totaly destroy hyper capatilism with out even firing one shot...people just dont want to...

every one knows about these bankers and their hyper schemes to only get richer, but out side of internet screaming, people dont really want to get out and massivly peacfully protest these scum...

corporations can be brought to their knees,the masses of people just have to decide to not buy...

look at the music industry, its been brought to its knees. not because people banned together to decide enough of ridiculas prices for a cd and mediocre music to pick from with stupid all encompassing corporate hype shoving bad artists down our throats for years...no, people found out how to get something for free and that is how they brought the music industry to its knees...

people dont reaslly want to rebel against this, they want to be spoon fed by the corporation,if you cant get people to not buy mccdonalds, even with all the information on the table about how bad it is for your health, well there is the reality right there...

people could be doing much more than tea parties to stop the bankers from making this happen...

but i also see the sharia lawers and neo communists just doing all their nasty games at people expence to get some of that power also...and they play dirtiar...iran is executing people for just protesting, chavez is closing down tv stations , cuba food rations people and they can get any food from various places in the world...

so i am looking for people to really rise up and show their anger at these hyper capatalist policies, it has never been more aperant and on the table than since bush brought the real mess out on us all...if they arnt going to really make a differance about that now, it may never happen, so i am just prepared to watch my back from everyone...i never was a gung ho american, fan of the cia and wars...but, i also like reality, and much of the information i have seen you bring in is not based on total fact

at the risk of bringing dnb and jake mccran out of the woodwork,i absolutly dont beleive 9/11 was a conspiricy, it was done by islamist exremits, and islamic extremists have been responsible for most of the conflicts in the world in the last 60 years. they need to be totaly stood up to...but iraq was totaly unescasary and stupid and a blatent sighn of imperialism at its worst....

i still dont beleive the bases in colombia are being set to be sent into south america to be killing off people,unless chavez goes ape and starts conflict to try to retain the power that he is looking for...and you know, yes, if rougue elements in the world play dirty, the money people play dirty right back...

maybe the usa is a hub of these world wide banker schemes, but it is not the only player in that game, they facilitate it , but its going on all over , it is bigger than countries...but again, people could really rise up against them non violently and make a differanc if they wanted to, they just dont want to....

joao, mst got busted today,i know you know,they should never have messeed with bndes hahahahahahaha

joao, mst got busted today,i know you know,they should never have messeed with bndes hahahahahahaha

I am aware of it, ASP and I am glad you share my sentiments about those low lives. It is getting hot for them south of our state border and they are being sent over here. The state government finally woke up and did something. They have to do the same thing for those MFs coming from other Western states (bordering the neighboring countries) and put an end to the "Problems" we are having in our neighborhoods.

Lloyd Cata is right on one point though. I know a bit more than I am willing to let on, just like him!!!!

BTW, I cordially invite you also to that link I furnished to Dr.Cata.

Cheers. Might drop by again with some unimportant visitors again in the coming weeks.

yeah,and it was good news to me about the bust

Before your government becomes more involved with Haiti, look at the videos on the Haiti Information Project website, and especially the criticisms of the Brazilian troops serving with UN. All the independent media in Haiti, like HIP and Comunica, need supporting.
What depresses me about this discussion of Brazil's international role, is that nobody is mentioning uniting the south American continent, in the way that the European Union and African Union are uniting their continents, however imperfectly. Surely Lula should be trying to cooperate with Chavez in this, instead of competing for international influence?
Under the military regimes in the recent past, Argentina, Brazil and Chile all competed for continental dominance, with Pinochet helping Thatcher against Argentina, for example.United you stand, divided you fall.
Another area where Brazil is missing out internationally is in making a strategic investment in Brazilian cultural centres in every country where there are Brazilian immigrants, and in this way, turning the Brazilian diaspora into a national development asset.I'm disappointed that Jobim didn't have a bigger impact abroad as Minister of Culture.

I'm disappointed that Jobim didn't have a bigger impact abroad as Minister of Culture.

When was Jobim the Minister of Culture? Refresh my memory, please.

When and where did he live under such rule,Cap´n?

Did Lula not live in Brazil from 1964 to 1984? Maybe I missed something?

Did Lula not live in Brazil from 1964 to 1984? Maybe I missed something?

He did live here during that period, though not under an "authoritarian rule". He was just 19 in 1964 and in spite of his being from a poor family in the Northeast, he managed to make use of the opportunities that the strong economic growth presented to him and many others during the Military government. He didn't get involved in any subversive activities nor went into exile like his predecessor or many of his "junior colleagues" who work for him now (and belonged to the upper middle or rich class) . Contrary to popular belief, the Military government really did not harass people who did honest living. By the time Lula got into his labor union activities (in VW), the military had already decided to quit power and they really didnt care about his political activities. (Remember the famous Leh Walesa of Poland?). When the Military quit, he furthered his political career, though he didn't get elected as the President immediately.

Even many of his critics as well his supporters acknowledge that he is a very charismatic figure. Unfortunately he always used his charisma to develop himself into a cult figure. If you recall the history, the Military generals, though were not elected, just stayed for 5 years before passing on the power to another one. Besides it would be very unfair to compare the Brasilian Military regime with that of Pinochet in Chile or the junta in Argentina. Also an exaggeration to compare him with Nelson Mandela or Gandhi! He likes power like Chavez does and I bet both of them exchange ideas as how to remain at the top for ever.

It's been a month since the earthquake - over 2 million
desperately need of food assistance. They have no homes, no
jobs, no food. The World Food Programme was there before the
quake, and they'll be there afterwards helping to rebuild lives.
If you want to help you should go to:
http://wfp.org/crisis/haiti or text FRIENDS to 90999 to make a
$5 donation