This and that: Odss & Ends

[TayTay]

Strong embrace

During his workday yesterday, (Oscar) Arias also met with his friend, Democratic Senator John Kerry (Massachusetts), with whom he exchanged an embrace so strong, it resounded throughout the office.

His meeting with Kerry had a focus other than cooperation: the future of the free trade agreements.

According to Arias, it is not very likely, after the democrats' victory, that the United States will approve more trade agreements.

"The Democrats have much more protectionist positions, and I believe that that arguments that it is necessary to demand more in the areas of labour and in protecting the environment are excuses for not approving treaties," Arias said.

Before his visit to Capitol Hill, Arias had lunch with businessmen at the US Chamber of Commerce.

"I regret that the FTA has not yet been approved, but I assure you that it has not been my fault," the Costa Rican president told them.

Arias predicted that by the end of January or beginning of February, the agreement will be voted on at the first Legislative Assembly debate.

Once again, he affirmed that during his administration there will be much more support for foreign investment.

"Costa Rica is a stable country amid disturbances. I invite you to take part in the development of a country that is not only an oasis of peace, but also the oldest and most stable democracy in Latin America," he said.


Source: La Nacion website, San Jose, in Spanish 6 Dec 06

[TayTay]

1. SBA Hearing yesterday is actually up!

Allegedly.

http://sbc.senate.gov/democrat/20061206.cfm

[ProSense]

2. Blair is in town:

Thu Dec 7, 2:52 PM ET
British Prime Minister Tony Blair, second from left, meets with, from left, Sen. Richard Lugar (news, bio, voting record), R-Ind., Sen. Paul Sarbanes (news, bio, voting record), D-Md., and Sen. John Kerry, D-Mass. on Capitol Hill in Washington, Thursday, Dec. 7, 2006. (AP Photo/Kevin Wolf)

[Inuca]

3. Not sure why, but...

... that's a very funny picture. And JK looks gorgeous, by the way :-)

[JI7]

5. Blair looks like an idiot, the rest have a nice kind look about them

[kerrygoddess]

4. I couldn't resist speculating

Blair saying Kerry was right - http://blog.thedemocraticdaily.com/?p=4915

[wisteria]

6. Nice picture n/t