Colombia Flag
Colombia
The Constitution provides for freedom of speech and press and the Government generally respected these rights in practice. Individuals criticized the Government both publicly and in private, and the media expressed a wide spectrum of political viewpoints and often sharply criticized the Government, all without fear of Government reprisal. However, journalists regularly practiced self-censorship to avoid retaliation and harassment by criminals and members of illegal armed groups. Several major newspapers and news magazines circulated nationally, and there were many influential regional publications. There were two major national radio networks and many national and regional television channels. The National Television Commission continued to oversee television programming, although it did not censor substantive content. Major international wire services, newspapers, and television networks had a presence in the country and generally ope ... [Read More]
Welcome to the U.S. Embassy in Nicaragua
For more than two centuries, the flag of the United States has been a symbol of hope and pride. The flag has inspired our citizens during times of conflict and comforted us during moments of sorrow and loss. On Flag Day and throughout National Flag Week, we celebrate the proud legacy of Old Glory and reflect on this enduring symbol of freedom. 111 ... [Read More]
South America
Accomplishments. By working with its neighboring Latin American and U.S. law enforcement counterparts, Chile accomplished stunning control successes during 2000. In January, Chilean authorities seized nearly nine metric tons of refined cocaine hidden in a Panamanian-flag cargo ship making a call in the northern port of Arica. In August, following a four-year investigation, Chilean authorities participated in the dismantling of a precursor chemical diversion operation involving 11,000 tons of sulfuric acid manufactured in Chile for cocaine processing in Bolivia. Chilean authorities wrapped up 2000 with their largest ever seizure of marijuana (1.5 tons), dismantling a drug ring moving Paraguayan product through Argentina for distribution in Chile. ... [Read More]
Country Files
Return to Guidance and Forms for U.S.-Flag Vessels Seeking Authorization to Conduct MSR in Foreign Waters. ... [Read More]
South America
Accomplishments. Cocaine seizures in Venezuela climbed dramatically in 2003, reaching a level more typical of the amount normally seized in Mexico—according to figures provided by Venezuelan authorities, more than 32 metric tons in 2003. At more than double the annual average of 15 metric tons in recent years, 2003's record seizures indicate an improving interdiction capability within the GOV, as well as an increase in cocaine transit through Venezuela. A further indication of this increased flow is the approximately 61 metric tons of cocaine seized by the Government of Spain on the high seas from ships sailing under the Venezuelan flag during a three-month period in mid-2003. ... [Read More]
Venezuela (11/03)
Major political parties: Fifth Republic Movement or Movimiento V Republica (MVR), Democratic Action or Accion Democratica (AD), Social Christian or Comite Organizador Politico por Elecciones Independientes (COPEI), Homeland for All or Patria Para Todos (PPT), Movement to Socialism or Movimiento al Socialismo (MAS), Radical Cause or La Causa R, Justice First or Primero Justicia, and the National Convergence or Convergencia. Flag: ... [Read More]
|