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index-February-2007-2.html English News Blog for  Bolivia News Blog February Archive 

Venezuela and Bolivia in Close Relationship

By Shannon at 02/25/07 00:53

An interesting story in the New York Times about the close relationship with Bolivia and Venezuela. The article discusses Venequela's investment in Bolivian facilities to support the "industrialization" of coca much to the chagrin of President Bush and the cancellation of Bolivia's debt.

Original source: The Democracy Center. The New York Times on Evo and Hugo

Carnival Revelers Hit By Bus

Fifteen people were killed when a bus plowed into the crowd of Canival revelers. The accident occurred in the town of Huancane about 200 miles south of La Paz. This Carnival is considered the greatest street celebrations in Latin America. It is reported the bus driver fled the scene.

Original source: Reuters Foundation AlertNet. Bus runs over, kills 15 during Bolivian Carnival

While Aid Has Arrived Landslides Are Hampering Victims

Bolivia is starting to receive International aid after weeks of flooding which has been the worst in 25 years. These floods have killed nearly 40 and tens of thousans have been forced from their homes. However, even though aid has finally arrived evacuation of the flood zones is being impaired and delayed by landslides.

Original source: BBC News. Aid arrives in flood-hit Bolivia

Violent Confrontations Mark First Anniversary

Celebrating his first anniversary in office, President Evo Morales is faced with mounting tensions in the city of Cochabamba. These tensions have led to violent confrontations betweeen the government supporters and those opposed to his authority.

Original source: Council on Hmispheric Affairs. No Smooth Sailing for Bolivia’s Morales

La Paz Residents At Great Risk

La Paz has been cut off by devastating floods and more rain is in the forecast. The worst floods in 25 years have hit and residents are at greater risk now. To date 35 people have been killed and most of Beni region which is about the size of the United Kingdom is under water.

Original source: Reuters Foundation AlertNet. Bolivia floods isolate city and more rain expected

Andean foothills being Searched for Missing Canadian

On a notoriously dangerous stretch of road in the Andean foothills a missing Canadian tourist is being search for by the Bolivian Police. Simon Mathew Boily, 23, planned to bicycle down the narrow unpaved road known as the "Highway of Death" and failed to show up for his flight home.

Original source: HeraldTribune/Americas. Police search Bolivia's 'Highway of Death' for missing Canadian tourist

Bolivian President Blames Climate Changes for Flooding

The floods in Bolivia have reportedly been the worst for more than 20 years. These floods have forced tens of thousands from their homes and have killed nearly 40 people. President Evo Morales says the failure of developed countries to combat climate change are responsible.

Original source: BBC News. Bolivia head issues flood attack

Morales will not compensate Glencore for smelter

Citing irregularities in the sale of the smelter complex, President Morales has said that Glencore will not be compensated. There is a question as to whether Glencore may not even legally own it. Morales cited "illegalities" in the 2000 privatization sale to British-based firm Allied Deals. Allied went bankrupt in 2003 and the facility was sold for an undisclosed amount to former Bolivian president Gonzalo Sanchez de Lozada. He later sold the complex to Glencore for 200 million dollars, but that sale is not documented. Sanchez de Lozada is currently wanted in Bolivia on human rights and corruption charges.

Original source: Turkish Press. Bolivia not to compensate Swiss foundry nationalization

Govt plans to increase digital coverage

The Bolivian government plans installation of 100 television broadcasting centers, with telephones and Internet service in most of the municipalities. The new broadcasting sites are expected to reach over a million people.

Original source: Inside Costa Rica. Bolivia to Reduce Digital Gap

UN to increase aid to victims of floods

Thousands are suffering from flood related injuries and recent rains have overlapped with an outbreak of dengue fever, yellow fever and malaria, and officials fear the floods will spread disease. The floods and landslides have cut off major roads and isolated a number of rural communities. The UN and UNICEF have provided $30,000 to help with water and sanitation, sent medical supplies, and provided several experts to help assess the situation.

Original source: Voice Of America News. United Nations Increases Humanitarian Aid to Flood-Stricken Bolivia