Identifier
Created
Classification
Origin
07SANTIAGO337
2007-02-27 14:49:00
UNCLASSIFIED
Embassy Santiago
Cable title:  

MEDIA REACTION - PRESIDENT BUSH'S TRAVEL TO LATIN AMERICA

Tags:  KMDR KPAO OPRC CI 
pdf how-to read a cable
VZCZCXYZ0014
RR RUEHWEB

DE RUEHSG #0337 0581449
ZNR UUUUU ZZH
R 271449Z FEB 07
FM AMEMBASSY SANTIAGO
TO SECSTATE WASHDC 1077
UNCLAS SANTIAGO 000337

SIPDIS

SIPDIS

STATE FOR R/MR, I/PP, WHA/BSC, WHA/PDA, WHA/EPSC

STATE FOR INR/IAA, PM, INL

E.O. 12958: N/A
TAGS: KMDR KPAO OPRC CI
SUBJECT: MEDIA REACTION - PRESIDENT BUSH'S TRAVEL TO LATIN AMERICA


On February 27, conservative, independent "La Tercera" (circ.
101,000) carried an editorial entitled "Bush in Latin America: A
Positive Signal." Quotes:

"President Bush's tour to Latin America...shows Washington's renewed
interest in the region and an effort to reverse a loss of
influence.... Its effort underscores Washington's commitment with
the region.... This change in priorities can be explained by the
growing influence and open anti-U.S. governments in Latin America,
such as Hugo Chavez'...who has extended alliances beyond the region,
particulQly with Iran. That is why it is important on this tour
that the U.S. President gives backing to those countries that can
counter that influence.

Bush will visit old partners, such as President Alvaro Uribe in
Colombia...and new allies, such as Uruguayan President Tabare
Vazquez...showing that Washington wants to strengthen ties with
countries that promote economic freedom and democratic values.
There is no doubt that one of the key stops will be Brazil, because
of the role it can play in containing the influence of governments
that are viciously anti-U.S.... The U.S. President's visit is a
good sign of Washington's renewed interest in the region. A
positive relationship between Brazil and the United States is not
only good for both, but also benefits Latin America.... In foreign
affairs, signals are important and with his visit President Bush is
setting the scene to improve relations with the region. Hopefully
the visit yields results, because Latin America needs to maintain
steady ties with Washington."

KELLY