Chaves Begins Diplomatic Ties With West Africa, page 1

posted on Aug, 3 2006 @ 10:17 AM

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President Hugo Chaves has begun diplomatic relations with West African countries Mali and Benin. Chaves says that Venezuela's experience in managing their natural resources could benefit both Mali and Benin, and could help both countries develop their own resources. Chaves in the mean time has decided to give $100m worth of oil to Mali annually, with no debt acquired by Mali or payment needed. Chaves has even said that he didn't need thanks. It is theorized that this is a plan by Chaves to get African endorsement of a Venezuelan seat on the UN Security Council.

news.bbc.co.uk
Venezuela's President Hugo Chavez is in Benin as part of a tour aimed at strengthening ties with Africa.

On Wednesday he visited Mali, where he promised $100m a year in petroleum products to help fight poverty.

Analysts say Mali and Benin could both benefit from Venezuelan money and know-how as they explore their territories for oil and gas reserves.

Please visit the link provided for the complete story.

It looks to me like Venezuela is most likely vying for a seat on the UNSC. In order to do that properly, with support, he needs to show the world that he is an active member of world politics, and has a direct hand in helping less fortunate countries. That is not to say that his desire to help impoverished is a false one, just that it is one which is symbiotic.

The UNSC has 5 permanent members, China, France, Russian Federation, the United Kingdom and the United States. In addition there are 10 temporary members who serve on the council for 2 years. Currently these temporary members are Argentina, Greece, Qatar, Congo (Republic of the), Japan, Slovakia, Denmark, Peru, United Republic of Tanzania and Ghana. Decisions require a majority of 9 for resolutions to be passed, with the 5 permanent members all having veto powers.

abcnews.go.com
www.un.org

DontTreadOnMe

posted on Aug, 4 2006 @ 02:27 PM

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This seems to tie in with this thread about Venezuela's plan to establish a new regional bank for those frustrated by the IMF.
www.abovetopsecret.com...

FredT

posted on Aug, 5 2006 @ 02:03 PM

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Interesting find. Chavez seems to be trying to be a toned down form of Castro but after visiting BALCO labs for some juice.

Its a decent plan IMHO and the oil giveaway while pales in comparison to out daily expendatures, is real $$$$ for smaller countries.

Dae

posted on Aug, 6 2006 @ 04:41 PM

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Chaves in the mean time has decided to give $100m worth of oil to Mali annually, with no debt acquired by Mali or payment needed.

He will be getting payment though, just not in cash but trade. From the article:

"But I need your mineral products like bauxite, gold and fertiliser, and the rest of the total will help you combat poverty."