Game Theory...The Ball is rolling - Part 3

BY: Mathew Maavak

Rice Extends Good Will to Latin Leftists

Secretary of State Condoleezza Rice said Thursday the United States has no quarrel with leftist leaders in Latin America and wants good relations with Bolivia under its new president, a coca growers union boss who once vowed to be "Washington's nightmare."

"The United States has no trouble, no difficulty, dealing with countries from either side of the political spectrum," citing Chile and Brazil as left-of-center governments that have good economic and other ties with Washington.

"The issue for us is that when you're elected democratically that you govern democratically," Rice said. That was a jab at Venezuelan President Hugo Chavez, who has eroded democratic norms in that country and made anti-Americanism the centerpiece of his foreign policy. He frequently calls President Bush a terrorist.

Now, that's the way to go. Maybe Jimmy Carter or Bill Clinton can be sent to calm ruffled feathers in Caracas, and the US does owe that gesture. A cynical world is waiting.

Rice will also visit Indonesia and Australia next week.

Again, another smart move. I just hope this administration practises what it preaches. If it does, watch things unfold...

Mathew Maavak
Jakarta, March 10