domingo, 30 de enero de 2005

BUSH HABLA DE EXITO RESONANTE EN IRAK

George Bush esta mas que satisfecho con la jornada electoral vivida en Irak, lamenta que la violencia haya terminado con la vida de irakies que solo quieran ejercer su derecho de ciudadanos, se conmueve por saber que soldados estadounidnses y de la gran bretaña siguen perdiendo la vida en aras de un futuro de libertad, pero su conclusión quedaba meridianamente clara.El pueblo iraki ha hecho de estas elecciones un existo resonante, y eso ademas sin olvifasrse nada mas empezar a hablar de rcordaar que la voz de la libertad se habia hecho oir desde el oriente medio, oriente proximo para nosotros, y sin olviedarse en esta ocasión de añadir a la union europea y a naciones unidas en la lista de agradecimientos…
En este proceso –dice- los irakies han tenido muchos amigos. La union europea y Naciones Unidas han brindado una asistencia importante para el proceso electoral. Bush en menos de cinco minutos, repitiendo mucho las palabras paz y libertad, con el paisaje de Washington nevado a sus espaldas, terminaba recordando que los Estados Unidos seguiran todavía entrenando a las fuerzas irakies hasta que puedan garantizar la seguridad de su propio pais, pero sin olvidarse de insistir en una felicitación: en nombre del pueblo estadounidnses, felicto al pueblo iraki por este ligro, una elecciones que deberian abrir un proceso de esperanza.
Exito resonante

viernes, 28 de enero de 2005

BUSH, SIEMPRE OPTIMISTA

George Bush mide con el New York Times todas y cada una de sus palabras y hasta diciendo lo mismo, parece que al periodico que le aconsejaba a voces suspender las elecciones del proximo domingo, le cuenta cosas que pudieran parecer diferentes… como por ejemplo que las tropas de los estados unidos se retiraran de Irak si las nuevas autoridades, el nuevo gobierno que salga de las urnas, asi se lo piden al presidente de los estados unidos quien es al fin y al cabo –se deduce- quien lleva la sarten por el mango.La entrevista se publica en pagina impar –la siete, en la edicion de Washington- tiene diez preguntas y una entrega entrecomillada y con llamada en portada –colunna de salida- firmada por los tres autores de la entrevista. George Bush no espera ni un segundo para decir de inmediato que sabe que las nuevas autoridades irakies le pediran que las tropas dse queden, no como ocupantes sino como colaboradoras. El presidente se apolla en las que son siempre las previsiones arriesgadas en unos comicios que antes y después estan marcados por la violencia y donde las amenazas de la insurgencia –para otros la resistencia- imposibilitan saber cuantos de los catroce millones doscientos mil irakies con derecho a voto van a atreverse a presentarse en un colegio electoral. La división etnica, geografica y religiosa del pais es el añadido a todos los interrogantes. Aquí se da como seguro el triunfo de los chies, precisamente porque el 20 por ciento de la población que son sunies han recibido la orden de no votar de sus lideres religiosos… Otro problemas añadido, sera saber si con esos mimbres se podra luego tener una asamblea representativa con el deber de hacer tambien una constitución en la que esten representados todos y cada uno de los intereses que para otros –los mas pesimistas- han empezado a poner en peligro la integridad del pais –sin hablar de los curdos- y a dejar en el aire la semilla de una temida guerra civil. Bush –como el mas optimista- prefiere decir al periódico que estamos viendo como se escribe la historia, una historia que cambiara el mundo, porque –esto ya lo repite desde hace tiempo- las elecciones irakies son el primer paso de una ola democratizadora en oriente medio, para nosotros oriente proximo, y con un añadido literal que, personalemte me hallamado la atención… creo –dice Bush- creo que dos de las grandes ironias de la historia seran que habra un estado palestino y un Irak democratico, lo que muestra el camino a la gente que quiere ser libre desesperadamente

jueves, 27 de enero de 2005

RICE CARGADA DE INTENCIONES

Division de opiniones, ideas cruzadas, pero en Estados Unidos ni las elecciones del domingo en Irak van a dar un respiro a la clase politica, ni por su puesto a la recien estrenada secretaria de estado, Condolezza Rice, quien nada mas pisar la sede de la que sera su casa en Washington, el ministerio de asuntos exteriores, quiso decir y dejar claro a los muchos funcionarios que la esperaban en el hall central del edificio lo que desde ahora sera el norte de su trabajo
Sé que algunos se preguntan si se puede afianzar la democracia en el rocoso terreno de Cisjordania, en Irak o en Afganistán. Creo que como estadounidenses, sabemos lo difícil que es el camino hacia la democracia, tenemos que creer que es posible
Condolezza Rice ha sido recibida con menos emocion que la que recogia su antecesor Collin Powell en la despedida... pero como hicera el general que acabo siendo diplomatico, esta dispuesta a no perder ni un minuto de tiempo para salir de viaje y recomponer las maltrechas relaciones que los Estados Unidos se han labrado con viejos amigos y aliados, pero con los que ahora quieren contruir un mundo mas libre y mas prospero Rice descolgo el telefono de inmedtao para hablar con sus colegas de Mexico, Chile y Brasil… pero entre sus mas inmediatos compromisos esta el viajar la proxima semana a Europa y a Oriente Proximo con intencion de hablar y ver a sus colegas o primeros ministros de Gran Bretana, Italia, Francia, Bélgica, Luxemburgo, Polonia, Turquía, Israel y Cisjordania. La ministra estadounidnse hablo, tambien, en su primer dia en el cargo con el nuevo presidente palestino, Mahmud Abás; con el jefe de Estado de Paquistan, general Musharraf; y con el ministro de Asuntos Exteriores italiano, Gianfranco Fini. Dentro y en casa escucho al senador demócrata Edward Kennedy decir que después de las elecciones del domingo en Irak ha llegado el momento de que las tropas estadounidenses regresen a casa cuanto antes… con una sentencia… . la presencia militar de Estados Unidos alli se ha convertido en parte del problema, no de la solución

OTRA MIRADA A LA GUERRA

Una colección de fotos que no se han publicado en los medios estadounidenses puede servir como ejemplo de que todos los ojos no ven lo mismo que nos enseñan. La guerra de Irak empezo mal y puede terminar peor. Es de la cruda realidad de donde hay que sacar soluciones. Las elecciones del domingo son para uno la primera salida, para otros, la mecha que encienda la que sera la gran encrucijada de nuestro tiempo. Solo queda esperar y VER no sin sorpresa lo que ya esta pasando en las imagenes que no nos enseñan de la guerra...

miércoles, 26 de enero de 2005

ACCIDENTE DE PELICULA

Juan Manuel Alvarez, veintiséis años, es a todas luces el hispano que la pasada madrugada, en la localidad Glendale en el estado de California, decidia quitarse la vida al paso de un tren de cercanias. La historia es de poner los pelos de punta…

Juan Manuel paraba su coche en medio de las vias del ferrocarril. Cuando a lo lejos diviso la llegada del convoy, arerpentido, salia del automóvil y abandono el vehiculo contra el que se empotraba un tren de viajeros al que el impacto hacia descarrilar y la mala fortura, empotarse contra el convoy que a esa misma hora circulaba por la otra via en direccion contraria. Diez personas han perdido la vida entre un amasijo de hierros, otras ciento ochenta quedaban heridas de distinta consideración. Juan Manuel se ha entregado arrepetido a la policia y ahora esta en espera de pasar a prision acusado de homiciado.

IRAK: MUERTE POR ACCIDENTE

El mal tiempo o un fallo mecanico, pero nunca una accion militar o un enfrentamiento armado, son las razones que se esgrimen desde Irak por el general Abizaiz para explicar el accidente que a primeras horas de la mañana causaba la muerte a 31 soldados estadounidense al estrellarse el helicopetero CH-53 super stalion en el que llevaban a cabo una mision de seguridad cerca de la frontera con Jordania y a unos 350 kilometros al oeste de Bagdad. El Pentagono continua sin embargo sus propias averiguaciones para elaborar las conclusiones que espera conocer el presidente Bush, a quien preguntaban en rueda de presa sobre este paritular. Desde marzo del 2003 estados unidos ha perdido en Irak 33 helicoperos de este modelo, con capacidad para trasladar en su interior hasta 55 personas y con autonomia para realizar hasta 1000 Km. A esta hora, en Washington las doce y…. se ha confrimado por el senado a Condolezza Rice como ministra de asuntos exteriores, después de diez horas de discusiones y con un resultado de 85 votos a favor y 13 votos en contra. Condolezza Rice se convierte en la primera mujer negra al frente de la secretaria de estado.



CONFERENCIA DE PRENSA

La primera, en la frente...
Transcript: President Bush's News Conference
FDCH E-MediaWednesday, January 26, 2005; 10:58 AM
President Bush held the first news conference of his second term on Wednesday, January 26. A transcript follows.
BUSH: Good morning.
With a second term under way and a new Congress at work, we're moving forward on great goals for our country. In my inaugural address, I renewed this nation's commitment to expanding liberty at home and promoting liberty abroad.
Because our own freedom is enhanced by the expansion of freedom in other nations, I set out the long-term goal of ending tyranny in our world. This will require the commitment of generations. But we're seeing much progress in our own time.
In late 2004, the people of Afghanistan defied the threats of terrorists and went to the polls to choose their leaders. The Palestinian people have elected a president who has renounced violence. This week, Ukraine inaugurated a new president, President Yushchenko. And just four days from now, the people of Iraq will vote in free national elections.
Terrorists in that country have declared war against democracy itself and thereby declared war against the Iraqi people themselves. Yet the elections will go forward.
BUSH: Millions of Iraqi voters will show their bravery, their love of country and their desire to live in freedom.
Across the world, freedom has deadly enemies. Yet across the world freedom has great and growing momentum.
And there have been enormous sacrifices made by some of our citizens in the spread of freedom. Families suffer as a result of the loss of a loved one.
Continue to offer condolences and prayers for those who do suffer. We will honor the memories of their loved ones by completing our missions.
Next week, I will report to Congress on the state of the union and describe in more detail a legislative agenda to serve the goals I have outlined.
I'll ask the House and Senate to act soon on the issue of Social Security so that we don't pass a bankrupt system on to our children and our grandchildren.
BUSH: I'm open to good ideas from members of Congress. I'll work with both parties to get results.
Any solution must confront the problem fully and directly by making the system permanently solvent and providing the option of personal accounts.
For this new term, I've assembled an exceptional Cabinet and several members are taking office this week. In addition to speedy action on all my nominees, I especially urge the Senate to confirm Condoleezza Rice today and to promptly act and confirm Judge Al Gonzalez.
We have a full agenda. I'm looking forward to the work ahead and now I'm looking forward to answering some of your questions.
QUESTION: Mr. President, the insurgents in Iraq are threatening to kill anyone who comes out to vote on Sunday. Do you think they'll succeed in killing or scaring away enough people so that the elections will be rendered seriously flawed or not credible?
BUSH: We anticipate a lot of Iraqis will vote.
Clearly, there are some who are intimidated. Surveys show that the vast majority of people do want to participate in democracy. And some are felling intimidated.
I urge all people to vote. I urge people to defy these terrorists.
These terrorists do not have the best interests of the Iraqi people in mind. They have no positive agenda. They have no clear view of a better future. They're afraid of a free society.
I am impressed by the bravery of the Iraqi citizens.
I am heartened by the strong words of Prime Minister Allawi. I talked to him yesterday on the phone. He is determined to lead his country forward into the elections.
I appreciate the hard work of the United Nations, which is providing good leadership on the ground. And I anticipate a grand moment in Iraqi history.
BUSH: And if we'd have been having this discussion a couple of years ago and I just stood up in front of you and said the Iraqi people would be voting, you would look at me like some of you still look at me, with a, kind of, blank expression.
(LAUGHTER)
People are voting. And this is a part of a process to write a constitution and elect a permanent assembly. And it's exciting times for the Iraqi people.
QUESTION: What would be a credible turnout number?
BUSH: The fact that they're voting in itself is successful.
Again, this is a long process. It is a process that will begin to write a constitution and then elect a permanent assembly.
BUSH: And this process will take place over this next year.
It is a grand moment for those who believe in freedom.
QUESTION: Your inaugural address has been interpreted as a new aggressive posture against certain countries, in particular, Iran. Should we view it that way?
BUSH: My inaugural address reflected the policies of the past four years that said -- that we're implementing in Afghanistan and Iraq. And it talked about a way forward.
I think America is at its best when it leads toward an ideal. And certainly a world without tyranny is an ideal world.
The spread of freedom is important for future generations of Americans. I firmly believe that free societies are peaceful societies. And I believe every person desires to be free.
And so I look forward to leading the world in that direction for the next four years.
QUESTION: (inaudible) a policy shift?
BUSH: No. As I said, it reflects the policy of the past, but it sets a bold new goal for the future. And I believe this country is best when it heads toward an ideal world, we are at our best.
And in doing so, we're reflecting universal values and universal ideas that honor each man and woman, that recognize human rights and human dignity depends upon human liberty.
And it's -- I'm looking forward to the challenge. And I'm looking forward to reaching out to our friends and allies to convince them the necessity to continue to work together to help liberate people.
QUESTION: Mr. President, let me take you up on that if I may.
Last month in Jordan, a gentleman named Ali Hattar was arrested after delivering a lecture called "Why We Boycott America." He was charged under Section 191 of their penal code for slander of government officials. He stood up for democracy, you might say.
And I wonder if here and now you will specifically condemn this abuse of human rights by a key American ally. And if you won't, sir, then what, in a practical sense, do your fine words mean?
BUSH: I am unaware of the case. You've asked me to comment on something that I didn't know took place.
I urge my friend, His Majesty, to make sure that democracy continues to advance in Jordan.
I noticed today that he put forth a reform that will help more people participate in future governments of Jordan. I appreciate His Majesty's understanding of the need for democracy to advance in the greater Middle East.
We visited with him at the G-8 and he has been a strong advocate of the advance of freedom and democracy.
Let me finish.
Obviously we're discussing a process. As I said in my speech, not every nation is going to immediately adopt America's vision of democracy and I fully understand that.
BUSH: But we expect nations to adopt the values inherent in a democracy, which is human rights and human dignity, that every person matters and every person ought to have a voice. And His Majesty is making progress toward that goal.
I can't speak specifically to the case. You're asking me to speak about a case and I don't know the facts.
QUESTION: Will you then -- does your inaugural address mean that, when it comes to people like Mr. Hattar, you won't compromise because of a U.S. ally, and you will stand...
BUSH: Again, I don't know the facts. You're asking me to comment on something. I don't know the facts.
Perhaps you are accurate in your description of the facts, but I have not seen those facts.
Now, nevertheless, we have spoken out in the past and will continue to speak out for human rights and human dignity, and the right for people to express themselves in the public square.
QUESTION: Mr. President, in the debate over Dr. Rice's confirmation, Democrats came right out and accused you and the administration of lying in the run up to the war in Iraq. Republicans, in some cases, conceive it that mistakes have been made.
Now that the election is over, are you willing to conceive that any mistakes were made? And how do you feel about that?
BUSH: Let me talk about Dr. Rice. You asked about her confirmation.
Dr. Rice is an honorable, fine public servant who needs to be confirmed. She will be a great secretary of state.
And Dr. Rice and I look forward to moving forward. We look forward to working to make sure the Iraqis have got a democracy. We look forward to continue to make sure Afghanistan is as secure as possible from potential Taliban resurgents. We look forward to spreading freedom around the world. And she is going to make a wonderful secretary of state.
QUESTION: No reaction to the lying?
No reaction?
(LAUGHTER)
BUSH: Is that your question? The answer's no.
BUSH: Next.
(LAUGHTER)


QUESTION: Sir, I'd like to ask you about the deficit.
But before I do that, there is a developing story this morning, the helicopter crash in Iraq. Can you tell us what you know about that and what may have caused that and your reaction to it?
BUSH: I know that it is being investigated by the Defense Department.
And, obviously, any time we lose life it is a sad moment.
QUESTION: You don't know whether it was weather-related or...
BUSH: Not yet.
I've heard rumors, but -- wait till the facts.
QUESTION: You're preparing to ask Congress for an additional $80 billion in war spending in Afghanistan and in Iraq. The White House is also prepared to predict a budget deficit of $427 billion for this year.
You talk about sacrifice in this country. Do you think that you're really asking Americans to sacrifice financially when you're asking them to fund the war, yet at the same time perhaps pay an exorbitant amount to set up private accounts and Social Security, pay for a prescription drug benefit, as well as other spending plans?
BUSH: So the...
QUESTION: And tax cuts? Make those permanent? It's a lot of money.
BUSH: OK, let me see if I can dissect your question into separate parts.
First, Americans pay a lot of taxes. They pay tax at the federal level. They pay tax at the state level. They pay tax at the local level. Americans do pay taxes.
Secondly, I made the commitment to our troops, we'll fund them. And that's exactly what we're doing. We've got people in harm's way. I look forward to working with Congress to fund what is necessary to help those troops complete their mission.
Thirdly, we have presented a plan in the past and will present one here later on this -- in February, that will show -- cut the deficit in half.
BUSH: And it's obviously going to require cooperation with the United States Congress to make some very difficult decisions when it comes to funding the budgets.
Fourthly, we not only were attacked and therefore needed to defend ourselves, we also had a recession. And I felt it was very important to reduce the tax burden on the American people to get out of the recession. In other words, we were dealing with twin problems.
And because of the tax relief, our economy is growing forward. Last year at this time, the projected budget was $527 billion. You might remember that. It turned out that the budget was $412 billion for last year.
Now, the budget is projected to be at $427 billion.
BUSH: We look forward to working to hold the line with the United States Congress on spending. And as I say, I'll promote a package that will show the budget being cut in half over the next five years.
QUESTION: Mr. President, I want to try another way to ask you about Iraq.
When you made the decision to go to war in Iraq, you clearly had majority support in the country. A string of recent polls have shown a clear majority of the American people now believe it was a mistake to go to war in Iraq.
You've asked for $80 billion in more money on top of the billions already spent. The Army says it will probably have 100,000 or more troops in Iraq for at least another year.
What would you say to the American people, including a significant number who supported you at the beginning of the war, who now say, this is not what we were led to believe would happen.
BUSH: A couple of things. I'd say the world is better off without Saddam Hussein in power. A world with Saddam Hussein in power would've been a more dangerous world today.
Secondly, that we're making progress in helping Iraq develop a democracy. And in the long term, our children and grandchildren will benefit from a free Iraq.
In terms of troop levels, obviously we're going to have to the troop levels necessary to complete the mission.
BUSH: And that mission is to enable Iraq to defend herself from terrorists, homegrown or terrorists that come in from outside of the country.
And so our mission is focused on not only an increase in the number of Iraqis in uniform, whether it be army or national guard or border patrol or police, but to make sure that the quality of their ability to fight is enhanced.
And so, over the next year, we'll be advancing our plan to make sure the Iraqis are better prepared to defend themselves and to fight.
There have been some really fine units that have been stood up so far, and, obviously, we want to make sure there are more units that are capable of fighting.
BUSH: Listen, this problem will eventually be solved when the Iraqis take the initiative and the Iraqi people see Iraqi soldiers willing to defend them.
And the American people, when they see the Iraqis step up and begin to fight, will be seeing progress being made toward an objective which will make this world a better place.
I don't want to rehash something that I'm sure you got tired of hearing me talk about on the campaign trail. But it is -- the decisions we make today can affect how people live 30, 40 or 50 years from now.
And I bring up, once again, my example about working with Prime Minister Koizumi of Japan. And it wasn't all that long ago that Japan was a bitter enemy. And today, because Japan is a democracy and a free country, the Japanese are strong allies with the United States of America, and we're better off for it.
BUSH: And, listen, the story today is going to be very discouraging to the American people. I understand that. We value life and we weep and mourn when soldiers lose their life.
But it is the long-term objective that is vital, and that is to spread freedom. Otherwise, the Middle East will continue to be a cauldron of resentment and hate, a recruiting ground for those who have this vision of the world that is the exact opposite of ours.
QUESTION: A question on Social Security, if we may, sir.
There has been, as you work forward to making your ultimate proposal, growing concern among Republicans on Capitol Hill. We had Chairman Thomas last week with some concern about the process and Senator Olympia Snowe on the other side suggesting that she's concerned about a guaranteed benefit. Are you prepared today to say that those who opt into a potential private account, personal account, could in fact have a guaranteed benefit as well?
And what do you say to Republicans who are beginning to worry?
BUSH: I am looking forward to working with both Republicans and Democrats to advance a plan that will permanently solve Social Security. There is -- I met yesterday with members of the United States Senate, I'm meeting today with members of the House of Representatives to discuss the need to work together to get a solution that will fix the problem.
And here's the problem: As dictated by just math, there is the -- the system will be in the red in 13 years. And in 2042, the system will be broke. That's because people are living longer and the number of people paying into the Social Security trust is dwindling.
BUSH: And so, therefore, if you have a child -- how old is your child?
QUESTION: Fourteen years old.
BUSH: Yes, 14. Well, if she were...
QUESTION: He, sir.
BUSH: He, excuse me. Should've done the background check.
(LAUGHTER)
When she gets ready to -- when she's 50, the system will be broke, if my math is correct.
In other words, if you have a child who's 25 years old, when that person gets, you know, gets near retirement the system will be bankrupt.
And therefore, it seems like to me -- and if we wait, the longer we wait, the more expensive the solution. So therefore, now's the time to act.
And Social Security has been an issue that has made people nervous. I understand that. I mean, you know, people felt like it was the third rail of American politics. That means if you touch it, you will have -- it'd be political death.
BUSH: I have said to the American people that our job is to confront issues and not pass them on.
And we have a serious issue with Social Security. The math shows that we have an issue. And now is the time to come together to solve it.
And so, what you're hearing a little bit is whether or not it is worth the political price. I think it is.
And I'm looking forward to leading the Congress, and I'm looking forward to taking the case to the American people. I will begin -- begin -- I will continue that process with the State of the Union address.
And then I look forward to taking off shortly thereafter and traveling around the country discussing this issue, similar to what President Clinton did.
President Clinton highlighted the issue, an issue that needed to be addressed and an issue that needed to be solved. He fully recognized, like I recognize, that it's going to require cooperation in the House and the Senate.
And we, in anticipation of this moment, obviously -- you might remember we brought together a distinguished group of our citizens to analyze the issue. And they came forth with some very interesting ideas.
BUSH: As well, it is very important for us to reassure the seniors that nothing changes.
And I fully understand the power of those who want to derail a Social Security agenda by, you know, scaring people. It's been a tactic for a long period of time by those who believe the status quo is acceptable.
And so, one of the things you'll hear me constantly doing is reminding our senior citizens that nothing will change and that we have a duty to act on behalf of their children and grandchildren.
QUESTION: Mr. President, if I could return for a moment to your inaugural address, Dr. Rice referred in her testimony to six outposts of tyranny, countries where we clearly, I think, have a pretty good idea of your policies. What we're confused by right now I think, or at least what I'm confused by, is how you deal with those countries like Russia, China, Saudi Arabia, with whom we have enormous broad interests.
Should the leaders of those countries now be on notice that the primary measure of their relationship with the United States should be their progress toward liberty? Or can they rest assured that in fact you've got this broad agenda with them and you're willing to measure liberty up against what China does for you on North Korea, what Russia for you in other areas?
BUSH: I don't think foreign policy is an either/or proposition. I think it is possible when you're a nation like the United States to be able to achieve both objectives, one objective the practical objective of dealing, for example, as you mentioned, with North Korea.
BUSH: But in my meetings with Chinese leadership in the past, in my meetings with Chinese leadership in the future, I will constantly remind them of the benefits of a society that honors their people and respects human rights and human dignity.
For example, in meetings with the Chinese in the past I have brought up the Dalai Lama, I have brought up concerns of the Catholic Church. I have discussed my belief that a society that welcomes religious freedom is a wholesome -- religious freedom is a part of a wholesome society and an important part of a society.
Vladimir Putin -- I've discussed with Vladimir Putin some of his decisions, as you might remember, in our meeting in Chile. I will continue to do so. I will remind him that if he intends to continue to look West, we in the West believe in Western values.
You know, democracy is a progress -- you'll see progress toward a goal.
BUSH: There won't be instant democracy.
And I remind people that our own country is a work in progress. You know, we declared all people equal and yet all people weren't treated equally for a century. We said everybody counts, but everybody didn't count.
And so I fully understand developing a democratic society and adhering to the traditions and customs of other nations will be a work in process. That's why I said we're talking about the work of generations.
And so in my talks, in my discussions with world leaders to solve the problem of the day, I will constantly remind them about our strong belief that democracy is the way forward.
QUESTION: Mr. President, Dr. Rice again, quoting the future secretary of state, wrote in Foreign Affairs Magazine in 2000, outlining what a potential Bush administration foreign policy would be, talked about things like security interests, free trade pacts, confronting rogue nations, dealing with great powers like China and Russia.
But promotion of democracy and liberty around the world was not a signature element of that description. I'm wondering what's changed since 2000 that has made this such an important element of your foreign policy.
BUSH: I'm the president. I set the course of this administration.
BUSH: I believe freedom is necessary to promote peace.
And I haven't seen the article you're referring to. And I can assure you that Condi Rice agrees with me that it's necessary to promote democracy.
I haven't seen the article. I didn't read the article. Obviously it wasn't part of her job interview.
(LAUGHTER)
Condi is a firm believer in democracy.
QUESTION: Mr. President, Chairman Thomas and some others on the Hill have suggested taking up tax reform at the same time that you deal with Social Security reform, and to consider alternatives such as a value-added tax to the current payroll tax to finance your Social Security.
Are you willing to consider combining those two big projects? Or do you prefer to keep them on separate tracks?
BUSH: I look forward to working with the Congress to move the process forward. I appreciate people bringing forth ideas. I think it is a constructive part of the process.
I'll have my own -- I'll be a little more specific as time goes on, and perhaps at the State of the Union, talking about how I think we can have a real long-term solution.
BUSH: But I think it's constructive that Chairman Thomas, who will be charged with having a bill come out of the Ways and Means, is thinking creatively, is willing to figure out ways to bring people along.
I am -- and you'll find, as this process unfolds, that there will be a lot of different suggestions, some of them valid, some of them not valid. But the idea that people are bringing forth ideas is a really good sign.
The threshold question is, will Congress -- you know, is Congress willing to say we have a problem? We do have a problem. The math shows we have a problem. And now is the time to act on that problem.
And once people realize there's a problem, then I believe there's an obligation for all sides to bring forth ideas.
BUSH: And that's what you're seeing with Chairman Thomas, and I appreciate that. I'm looking forward to my visit with him this afternoon.
QUESTION: Mr. President, I want to ask about the Gonzales nomination, and specifically about an issue that came up during it, your views on torture.
You said repeatedly that you do not sanction it, you would never approve it.
But there are some written responses that Judge Gonzales gave to his Senate testimony that has troubled some people, specifically his allusion to the fact that cruel, inhumane and degrading treatment of some prisoners is not specifically forbidden, so long as it's conducted by the CIA and conducted overseas.
Is that a loophole that you approved?
BUSH: Al Gonzales reflects our policy, and that is: We don't sanction torture.
He will be a great attorney general. And I call upon the Senate to confirm him.
QUESTION: Mr. President, at the beginning of your remarks today, you referred to two criteria that you're looking for on a Social Security fix: namely, permanent solvency and personal accounts. Does that mean you would be willing to consider some changes that might broaden the base of revenues for the system as a way of addressing solvency?
BUSH: I look forward to a fruitful discussion of all ideas with the exception of raising the payroll tax.
QUESTION: Sir, can you update us please on your search for a director of national intelligence? Are you having trouble finding the right person? And do you worry at all that the delay might suggest to some people that it's not a high priority for you?
BUSH: When the bill looked like it wasn't going to pass, we weighed in to get it passed and we will work with members of both parties to get a bill out of the Congress.
BUSH: It's clearly a high priority.
It is a priority for us to make sure that I get the very best intelligence in order to make wise decisions for the American people.
And a search goes on to find the right person to handle this very sensitive position. We're dealing with a brand new agency that is going to require somebody with extraordinary experience. And we're looking. And no one should read anything other than we want to make sure we make the right choice.
QUESTION: Back on Social Security, any transition to personal accounts is estimated to cost between $1 trillion to $2 trillion over 10 years. Without talking about specific proposals, do you plan to borrow that money or will you, when your plan comes up...
BUSH: You're asking me to talk about specific proposals.
BUSH: And I'm looking over the -- I fully understand some people are concerned about whether or not this is affordable. And at the appropriate time, we'll address that aspect of reform.
But personal accounts are very important in order to make sure that young workers have got a shot at coming close to that which the government promises.
They are also important because a personal account, obviously under strict guidelines of investment, would yield a better rate of return over -- than the money -- the person's money is earning in the Social Security trust.
And personal accounts will enable a worker to be able to pass on his or her ownings to whoever he or she chooses, which is an important part of promoting an ownership society. We want people to own and manage their own assets.
BUSH: After all, it is their own money.
And so it's a very important part, in my judgment, of reforming the system permanently.
But there -- you know, I fully understand that accounts is not the only thing that will be necessary to make sure the system is permanently secure.
Ken, well, welcome. Let me ask you, are you here temporarily, permanently, and who do you represent?


QUESTION: That would be up to my wife, sir, as you well know.
(LAUGHTER)
BUSH: Yes, thank you.
QUESTION: Mr. President, on Social Security, you say the math clearly shows -- as you know, most of us became reporters because of our deep affection for math.
But if the math clearly shows it, why are you having so much trouble on the Hill getting some to share your urgency? Do you think they're looking at the numbers differently, honestly, or are they running from the third rail?
BUSH: Glad to have you here.
(LAUGHTER)
BUSH: I am going to continue to speak directly to the American people about this issue and remind them about the math and remind them that, if you're a senior, nothing changes and speak to the younger folks coming up about the forecasts.
I mean, if you're a 20-year-old person and you look at the math, you realize that you will inherit a bankrupt system, which means either there will be significant benefit cuts or significant payroll tax increases in order to fund that which the government has laid out for you as a part of your retirement.
And the Congress tends to listen to the people. And so, I will continue to speak to the people and, at the same time, reach out to members of both parties.
BUSH: We have been through these kinds of questions before. In my early press conferences I can remember -- I can't remember exactly the questions, but I do remember the tone, about people saying, "How can you possibly get tax cuts through the Congress when so and so said that they shouldn't be done, or such and such said this, or this report said that, or the American people didn't want this?"
And so I am heartened by past experiences to believe that it is possible to do big things in Washington, D.C. And I look forward to working with members of the Congress to achieve big, notable reform.
QUESTION: I seem to remember a time in Texas on another problem, taxes, where you tried to get out in front and tell people it's not a crisis now, it's going to be a crisis down the line. You went down in flames on that one.
BUSH: Let me, if I might...
(LAUGHTER)
BUSH: I don't think of billion dollar tax relief that permanently reduced property taxes on senior citizens with flames, but since you weren't a senior citizen perhaps that's your definition of flames.
QUESTION: What is there about...
BUSH: Because you're not a senior citizen yet.
QUESTION: What is it about government that makes it hard...
BUSH: Acting like one however.
Go ahead.
(LAUGHTER)
QUESTION: ... for government to get...
BUSH: Faulty memory.
QUESTION: ... to address things...
(CROSSTALK)
BUSH: Do we have a crisis in Texas now of school property taxes?
QUESTION: Yes, we do.
BUSH: Thank you.
QUESTION: First of all, I had two questions. One on Iraq.
You say about the troop withdrawal...
BUSH: No, no, I said what?
QUESTION: No, I'm going to your question -- the answer...
BUSH: I thought you said -- you said on troop withdrawal.
QUESTION: Yes, I'm talking about troop withdrawal. Don't mess me up, now.
(LAUGHTER)
You said, in a response just now, that it depends on the initiative of the Iraqis.
Are you giving the Iraqis a timetable for what you're going to do with troop withdrawal and when?
BUSH: We will complete the mission as quickly as possible. And that mission of a secure and stable Iraq will be achieved when the Iraqis are fighting the former regime elements and people like Zarqawi.
BUSH: Therefore, the -- it is important that we continue to press forward with proper training.
Now, training means not just signing people up. Training means equipping and preparing them for tough fights, as well as developing a chain of command. A good military requires a chain of command from top to bottom, so that orders and plans and strategies can be effected efficiently.
And we have work to do there, and we will do the work.
The second question?
QUESTION: The second question on race. You brought it up in the inaugural address, and yesterday and today you will have black leaders here at the White House discussing issues of race.
Yesterday, you didn't discuss civil rights, but where are you in the second term as it relates to race in America?
BUSH: Civil rights is a good education. Civil rights is opportunity. Civil rights is homeownership. Civil rights is owning your own business. Civil rights is making sure all aspects of our society are open for everybody.
BUSH: And we discussed that yesterday.
And I believe that what I said was important, that we've got to, you know, shed ourselves of bigotry if we expect to lead by example.
And I'll do the very best I can as the president to make sure the promise -- and I believe in the promise of America -- is available for everybody.
QUESTION: Mr. President, do you think it's a proper use of government funds to pay commentators to promote your policies?
BUSH: No.
QUESTION: Are you going to order that...
BUSH: Therefore I will not pay you to.
(LAUGHTER)
QUESTION: Fair enough.
Are you ordering that there be an end...
BUSH: I expect my -- yes, I am. I expect my Cabinet secretaries to make sure that that practice doesn't go forward. There needs to be independence.
And Mr. Armstrong Williams admitted he made a mistake.
BUSH: And we didn't know about this in the White House. And, you know, there needs to be a nice, independent relationship between the White House and the press and the administration and the press. And so, no, we shouldn't be going forward.
QUESTION: Mr. Williams made a mistake.
BUSH: Who?
QUESTION: Mr. Williams made a mistake. Did the Department of Education make a mistake?
BUSH: Yes, they did.
QUESTION: And what will happen to the people that made this decision?
BUSH: And we've got new leadership going to the Department of Education.
But all our Cabinet secretaries must realize that we will not be paying, you know, commentators to advance our agenda. Our agenda ought to be able to stand on its own two feet.
And I'm confident you will be, over the course of the next four years, willing to give our different policies an objective look, won't you?
BUSH: Yes. I can see that.
QUESTION: Senate Democratic leaders have painted a very bleak picture of the U.S. economy. Harry Reid was talking about soup lines and Hillary Clinton was talking about the economy being on the verge of collapse. Yet, in the same breath, they say that Social Security is rock solid and there's no crisis there.
You've said you're going to reach out to these people. How are you going to work with people who seem to have divorced themselves from reality?
BUSH: Continue to speak to the American people. Right after my State of the Union, I think I'm going to four or five states to continue to address this issue.
And, you know, I can remember President Clinton doing the same thing on Social Security. I thought he was very effective in teeing up the issue, of making the case. And I will do the same thing.
BUSH: And there's a -- in terms of whether the economy is growing or not, there's -- you know, jobs are increasing, forecasts look strong.
Obviously there's some things we need to do to make sure that America is a good place to continue to risk capital and invest.
That's why I'm urging the Congress to pass legal reform. You might remember one of the first issues that I addressed after election was legal reform, asbestos reform, class action reform, medical liability reform.
I believe if there is a -- that we've got a chance to get some good, meaningful legislation out of the Congress early, which will send a good signal that we will address those issues that make -- that stand in the way for further economic expansion.
BUSH: We need an energy bill. And I look forward to working with members of both parties to get a good energy bill out.
Obviously, people in the capital markets are going to be watching the issue of twin deficits -- on the one hand, the spending deficit, the fiscal deficit. We will address that in our budget that we're getting ready to submit to Congress.
Obviously, we're going to have to work closely together to send the signal that we're willing to tackle some tough issues.
The budget I'll be submitting is one that says we'll spend money on projects that work but we must make sure we're not wasting the taxpayers' money.
BUSH: In terms of the trade deficit, it is important for us to make sure that in countries that are -- that countries treat their currencies in market fashion -- I've been working with China, in specific, on that issue; secondly, that people knock down their barriers to our goods and services; thirdly, that we continue to grow our economy at home by making -- by some of the reforms I've just discussed.
But I think most people are optimistic about the economy next year. It's very important that we continue to put pro-growth policies in place.
QUESTION: Mr. President, Senator Ted Kennedy recently repeated his characterization of Iraq as a, quote, "quagmire," and has called it your Vietnam.
And the questioning of Alberto Gonzales and Condi Rice in the Senate has been largely used by Democrats to criticize your entire Iraq program, especially what you're trying to do postwar.
I wonder if you have any response to those criticisms. And what kind of effect do you think these statements have on the morale of our troops and of the confidence of the Iraqi people that what you're trying to do over there is going to succeed?
BUSH: I think the Iraqi people are wondering whether or not this nation has the will necessary to stand with them as a democracy evolves.
The enemy would like nothing more than the United States to precipitously pull out and withdraw before the Iraqis are prepared to defend themselves. Their objective is to stop the advance of democracy. Freedom scares them.
Zarqawi said something interesting the other day: that, you know, he was talking democracy and how terrible democracy is.
We believe that people ought to be allowed to express themselves. And we believe that people ought to decide the fates of their government.
And so the notion that somehow we're not making progress, I just don't subscribe to.
BUSH: I mean, we're having elections and I think people need to put this moment in history in proper context.
That context, of course, starts with whether or not the world will be better off with Saddam Hussein in power and whether or not America'd be more secure.
After all, I've always felt the Iraqi theater's a part of the war on terror. And I am encouraged and I am heartened by the fact the Iraqi citizens are showing incredible bravery.
They're losing a lot of people. Obviously these targeted assassinations of innocent civilians is having an effect on Iraqi families. But they want to vote. They want to participate in democracy. They want to be able to express themselves and to me that is encouraging.
There's a notion in some parts of that world that, you know, certain people can't self-govern; you know, certain religions don't have the capacity of self-government.
BUSH: And that condemns people to tyranny. And I refuse to accept that point of view.
I am optimistic about the advance of freedom and so should the American people.
After all, look what's happened in a brief period of time: Afghanistan, the Palestinian elections, which I think are incredibly hopeful elections, as well as the Ukraine and now Iraq.
We are witnessing amazing history. And the fundamental question is: Can we advance that history?
And that's what my inauguration speech said. It said yes we can.
I firmly planted the flag of liberty for all to see that the United States of America hears their concerns and believes in their aspirations. And I am excited by the challenge and am honored to be able to lead our nation in the quest of this noble goal, which is freeing people in the name of peace.
QUESTION: Mr. President, the Senate Republicans recently listed their priorities, and immigration reform wasn't on it. Do you think this means it's dead for this year?
BUSH: No, I don't.
QUESTION: And why are you having so much trouble with your own party...
BUSH: No, I appreciate that question. It'll be one of my priorities. I believe it's necessary to reform the immigration system.
I'm against amnesty. I've made that very clear.
On the other hand, I do want to recognize a system where a willing worker and a willing employer are willing to come together in a way that enables people to find work without jeopardizing a job that an American would otherwise want to do.
BUSH: I also happen to believe immigration reform is necessary to help make it easier to protect our borders.
The system right now spawns coyotes and smugglers and, you know, people willing to break the law to get people in our country. There is a vast network of, kind of, shadowy traffickers.
And I believe by making -- by advancing a program that enables people to come into our country in a legal way to work for a period of time for jobs that Americans won't do will help make it easier for us to secure our borders.
And so...
QUESTION: Why the resistance in your party so much to this?
BUSH: Well, you know, I think -- I'm looking forward to discussing it with members of both parties.
BUSH: I believe it's a very important issue that we need to address. I've had a lot of experience with dealing with borders as the governor of Texas. I know there's a compassionate, humane way to deal with this issue.
I want to remind people that family values do not stop at the Rio Grande river. People are coming to our country to do jobs that Americans won't do, to be able to feed their families. And I think there's a humane way to recognize that, at the same time protect our borders, and at the same way to make sure that we don't disadvantage those who have stood in line for years to become a legal citizen.
And I'm looking forward to working with people of both parties on the issue.
QUESTION: Mr. President, we saw the Democrats yesterday devote nine hours to Ms. Rice. We may see something similar with regard to Judge Gonzales. There's just simply a lot of anger on the Hill by Democrats at you personally and at your administration.
And isn't this going to dog your efforts at whatever you do down the line, from the Supreme Court to immigration to whatever?
BUSH: You know, we're all here to serve the people.
And I'm, as I say, I'm going to go out and explain why I think it's important for us to address big issues, like Social Security reform, and take my case to the people and let them here the rationale about why even address big issues, much less the reason why I think, for example, in Social Security, there is an issue.
As I just laid out the math, it is clear that now is the time to act.
And I don't know about hostility, you know, and all that business. I guess that's your job to gauge that. When I've talked with people, I feel like people are looking forward to working with us.
QUESTION: Well, you had a Democratic senator basically call your secretary of state nominee a liar. I mean, that's some pretty harsh language...
BUSH: Well, there are 99 senators other than that person. And I'm looking forward to working with as many members as we can.
BUSH: Condi Rice is a fine, fine public servant, greatly admired here in America and greatly admired around the world. And she will make a great secretary of state. And I'm looking forward to working with her.
Listen, thank you all every much for your time. I appreciate this and looking forward to working with you all as we have a productive 2005.
Thank you.

BUSH, ERRE QUE ERRE

George Bush ha contestado en 50 minutos a las 25 preguntas que le han formulado en su primera comparecia del que es ya su segundo mandato los periodistas acreditados ante la Casa Blanca. Irak ha sido la cuestion mas repetida, sin que George Bush –a veces molesto con las cuestiones planteadas- añadiera mas detalles al que fue, el pasado jueves, su discurso de investidura…
Algunos dicen que no hacemos progresos, rie forzado y concluye, vamos a realizar elecciones. Era su mejor defensa después de insistir que el mundo y los Estados Unidos son mas seguros sin Saddan Husseim. El presidente de los Estados Unidos que dijo no saber detalles sobre como perdieron la vida 31 soldados estadounidnses en el accidente de su helicóptero al oeste de Irak, ha vuelto a recordar que sociedades libres son mas pacificas y ha vuelto a insistir que los irakies seran libres y tendrán entrenamiento para defenderse a si mismo de los dirigentes del antiguo regimen y de terroristas como Alzarkawi. Las preocuapciones en politica onterior han sido la reforma de la seguridad social, la inmigración y el deficit bi millonario que ha obligado al presidente a comprometerse a reducir al 50 por ciento los numeros rojos que solo el ha creado desde su llegada hace cuatro años a la Casa Blanca. Bush ha aprovechado su comparecneica para defender a Condolizza Rice y al juez Gonzalez y para aceptar errores como el pagar a periodistas para que hablaran bien de la gestion de su gobierno
El bueno, el malo

martes, 25 de enero de 2005

...SERA POR DINERO

Guerra o ruina. En los Estados Unidos, según los ojos con los que se mira, las dos cosas, porque lo que esta claro es que el presidente George Bush quiere empezar su segundo mandato a Dios rogando y con el mazo dando… Si hace casi una semana era la libertad la palabra que mas se repetia en el llamado discurso de inauguración, este martes son los numeros y la carta remitida al congreso estadounidense la que se gana todas las atenciones. Irak y Afganistán, los gastos de guerra, necesitan una partida extraordinaria de 80 mil millones de dolares… y eso dice la nota de la casa blanca para que las tropas y los soldados estadounidenses puedan protegerse y completar la mision. La paradoja es que la solicitud tiene truco, primero porque no es la primera y segundo porque tampoco sera la ultima. Un dato para el sonrojo, los 80 mil millones extras es casi la misma cantidad que la administración Bush calculo el coste total de la guerra en Irak. El congreso ya habia autorizado a los gastos presupuestados un incremento de 25 mil millones de dolares y ahora el Pentagono se descuelga en noticia que convertia en portada el WP que por lo menos nadie puede dejar de pensar que en Irak habra que tener unos 120 mil soldados .como poco- hasta que acabe el año 2006. Las ideas de futuro tendran que plasmarse en nuevos presupuestos pero lo que permite hacer numeros mas pequeños –el decir que la guerra cuesta 45 millones cada hora que pasa, como se dice- es solo producto de sumar y dividir… pues desde finales del 2001, los gastos estadounidnses en combatir en la llamada fuerra contra el terror alcanza de largo los 300 mil millones de dolares… Todo esto sirve para explicar tambien otros datos que llevan a la economia estadounidense de cabeza. El déficit presupuestario alcanza en el presente ejercicio la cifra record de 427 mil millones de dolares, y es record porque supera con creces al déficit 2004 que se cerraba el 30 de septiembre con 412 mil 500 millones en numeros rojos… Muchos datos, muchos numeros, que sirven y van a servir de municion a estas horas –aquí las cuatro y cuarenta y cinco minutos de la tarde - a los democratas que siguen en la Colina del Capitolio interrorgando y examinando a la futura secretaria de estado Condolízza Rice sobre la materia que mas les duele… la guerra en Irak que dicen sigue sin rumbo, sin planes y en palabras del senador Edward Kennedy con premisa equivocada… debía traernos más seguridad. En su lugar, nos ha hecho menos seguros.
Tanqueta o peregil

MAR ADENTRO, MAS OSCAR

MAR ADENTRO de Alejandro Amenabar y el MAQUILLAJE DE LA PELICULA , el trabajo de Joe Allen y Manuel Garcia, aspiran a convertirse en dos premios, el domingo 27de febrero, en la que sera la setenta y siete edion de los premios de la academia del cine de hollywodd. Mar adentro, y su maquillaje estaran acompañadas en la lista de aspirantes por el corto 7,35 de la mañana firmado por el tambien español NACHO VIGALONDO y eligo como uno de los cinco mejores cortometrajes de ficcion. MAR ADENTRO comparte honores en la categoría de mejor película extranjera con otras tres cintas europeas –suecia, Francia y alemania, son sus paises deprocedencia- y otra película de Sudáfrica, la mas colocada para hacerle sombra, candidaturas que escuchamos en la voz del actor Adrian Brody
Mar Adentro, hacia el Oscar

Las mejores películas del año son, a jucico de la academia holliwodense EL AVIADOR, que alcanza hasta 11 candidadaturas, FAINDING NEVERLAND, MILLION DOLLAR BABY, la dos con siete candiaturas. RAY y SIDEWAYS. Aspiran tambien a oscar como mejor guion la película brasileña DIARIOS DE MOTOCICLETA que tambien pude llevarse el de MEJOR cancion CON LA PIEZA al otro lado del rio y ES candidata al codiciado premio oscar de mejor actriz, la colombiana CATALINA SANDINO… la unica que habla en español y que tendra que imponerse a un poker de categoría, en donde no faltan pelicuclas y nombres... TODOS LOS QUE SIGUEN, que puedes visitar en la pagina oficial de la Academia de Hollywood.

ACTOR PRINCIPAL
Don Cheadle - HOTEL RWANDA
Johnny Depp - FINDING NEVERLAND
Leonardo DiCaprio - THE AVIATOR
Clint Eastwood - MILLION DOLLAR BABY
Jamie Foxx - RAY
ACTOR DE REPARTO
Alan Alda - THE AVIATOR
Thomas Haden Church - SIDEWAYS
Jamie Foxx - COLLATERAL
Morgan Freeman - MILLION DOLLAR BABY
Clive Owen - CLOSER
ACTRIZ PRINCIPAL
Annette Bening - BEING JULIA
Catalina Sandino Moreno - MARIA FULL OF GRACE
Imelda Staunton - VERA DRAKE
Hilary Swank - MILLION DOLLAR BABY
Kate Winslet - ETERNAL SUNSHINE OF THE SPOTLESS MIND
ACTRIZ DE REPARTO
Cate Blanchett - THE AVIATOR
Laura Linney - KINSEY
Virginia Madsen - SIDEWAYS
Sophie Okonedo - HOTEL RWANDA
Natalie Portman - CLOSER
WRITING (ORIGINAL SCREENPLAY)
THE AVIATOR
ETERNAL SUNSHINE OF THE SPOTLESS MIND
HOTEL RWANDA
THE INCREDIBLES
VERA DRAKE

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El aviador, 11 candidaturas

lunes, 24 de enero de 2005

IRAK, MAS DINERO

Sin cambiar el paso, sin variar los mensajes,Estados Unidos sigue manteniendo que las elecciones en Irak el proximo domingo tendran todavía su dosis de violencia, La detencion de Abu Omar al Kurdi ha sido recibida en Washington con moderado optimismo, aunque siempre sin lanzar las campanas al vuelo, y dejando entrever que detrás de las operaciones de la insurgencia puede estar preparandose -o al menos puede estar intentadose- la realización de un gran atentado. El Pentagono, mientras, escucha como quien oye llover las ultimas insinuaciones y la preocupación que ya ha llegado al Capitolio sobre sus operaciones secretas en las que algunos senadores empiezan a plantearse si Rumfeld ha conseguido del Presidente el visto bueno para suplantar a la mismisima CIA. La cuestion iraki volvera muy pronto al congreso estadounidnse, quizas hoy mismo, cuando desde la Casa Blanca se les remita una nueva cuenta de gastos, en la que se amplia y se piden 80 mil millones extras para pagar las cuentas pendientes de Irak y Afganistan, unos calculos para los que el Congreso ya habia autorizado 25 mil millones de dolares sobre lo calculado en un principio.
Irak, en alerta

ANNAN: NO FALLAREMOS

Naciones Unidas celebra el sesenta aniversario de la liberación de los campos de concentración en una jornada emotiva, donde por vez primara la organización internacional ha aceptado mitrar al calendario de la historia, y rendir un publico homenaje a las victimas del holacauto, seis millones de personas, en su mayoria judios, pero tambien polacos y otros eslavos, prisioneros de guerra soviéticos, así como discapacitados mentales y físicos, disidentes políticos, artistas y homosexuales, -recordaba el secretario general de Naciones Unidas ‘Koffi annan, capaz de ofrecer un sentido recuerdo a las victimas sin dejar de lamentar y denunciar para nuestra venguenza que el mundo no ha sido capaz de evitar nuevos casos de genocidio
Es un dia para para recordar no solo a las vittimas de los horrores del pasado, abandonadas por el munod,-dice Annan- sino a las victimas potenciales de horrores actuales y futuros, es un dia para mirarles a los ojos y decirles… no os vamos a fallar
La delegacion española, que iba a estar presidida por el ex ministro y superviviente Jorge Semprum ha renunciado a ultima hora a hacer uso de la palabra ante la asamblñea, debido a la ausencia en Nueva York del que iba a ser su representante. Los parlamentarios Fatima Basurto e Iñaki Anasagasti –que junto a otros diputados y senadores visitan esta semana naciones unidas- han asistido –esta mañana- a la sesion especilal de la asamblea general –donde tambien han estado, entre otros, los ministro de asuntos exteriores de Alemani, Israel, Argentina y Francia. Los actos del dia hoy, que se ranudara fueron aprobados por los 2-3 de los 191 paises miembros, a propuesta de estados unidos y con la colaboracion entusiasta, entre otros, de los veinticinco miembros de la Union Europa.
Elie Wiesel, Nobel y Superviviente


NACIONES UNIDAS HACE HISTORIA

Naciones Unidas, por vez primera en 60 años, se viste de tiros largos… la liberacion de los campos de concentración sera el motivo de la sesion especial que en menos de dos horas celebra la asamblea general. El miércoles, cuando el campo de Auswitz sea el centro de las miradas del mundo, la comunidad internacional podra decir que no ha pasado por alto el recuerdo de una de las paginas mas negras de la historia.Seis millones de juidos murieron en los campos de concentración nazis, y ahora Estados Unidos se ha encargado de impulsar esta iniciativa a la que pronto se sumaban los veinticinco miembros de la Union Europea, Australia, Canada. Israel, Nueva Zelanda y Rusia. Celebrar una sesion especial en la ONU exige la aprobación de al menos los dos tercios de sus 191 paises, hasta ahora muy reacios a conmemorar acontecimientos historicos. La delegacion española estara encabezada por el escritor y ex ministro Jorge Semprun, un superviviente de los campos de exterminio considerados ahora, por Koffi Annan, secretario general de la ONU, como la mejor expresión del compromiso de futuro , para que la organización actue de inmediato para evitar el genocidio y otras violaciones de los derechos humanos. La sesion especial tiene comprometida la asistencia, entre otros, de los ministro de asuntos exteriores de Alemania, Argentina, Israel y Francia. Naciones Unidas se creaba el mismo año de la liberación de los campos de concentración, en la carta de San Francisco. Era el 24 de octubre de 1945, un aniversario que se recordara tambien este año.

domingo, 23 de enero de 2005

RUMSFELD BAJO SOSPECHA

Rumsfeld, de abrigo
El Senado quiere llamar a examen al ministro de la guerra, Donald Rumsfeld, el jefe del Pentagono, a quien sospechan se le ha concedido, bajo manga, privilegios que la reforma de los servicios de inteligencia querian haber dejado a buen recaudo, como por ejemplo una de las quince agencias de inteligencia, dependientes del Ministerio de la Defensa, a la que últimamente se han referido distintos medios informativos y en particular, el ultimo trabajo para la revista New Yorker del periodista S. Herts, titulado LAS GUERRAS QUE SE AVECINAN y en el que pronosticaba que el proximo verano Estados Unidos podria atacar Iran. El senador republicano Jhon McCain ha dicho a la cadena de televisión CBS que el mismo estaria intesado en saber si es verdad, como se ha insinuado en diferents medios de comunicación, si el cuestionado pero confirmado ministro Rumsfeld creo una nueva unidad de espionaje militar como afirmaba el domingo el diario Washington Post. La semana que hoy empieza puede ser movida para la nueva administración Bush, pues mañana martes la aspirante a convertirse en secretaria de estado, Condolezza Rice, tendra de nuevo que pasar el examen-interrrogatorio esta vez del Senado en pleno, después de que el partido demócrata quiera conocer de primera mano las directrices que llevara a la politica exterior la futura ministra a la que debe conceder el palcet adelantado por 16 votos a favor y dos en contra por la comision correspondiente de la camara alta.

IRAK Y NEGROPONTE

Irak esta de enhorabuena para el embajador de los estados unidos em Bagdad. Jhon Negroponte, a una semana de las elecciones, se ha paseado porlas televisiones de este pais pregonando su optimismo de que el proceso que ahora esta abierto en Irak sera irreversible y que el pais se encamina no sin dificultades hacia la libertad. Negroponte, en sus entrevistas via satelite, reconocia que la violencia es el problema mas urgente a resolver en este proceso, pero prometia que el proximo domingo medidas especiales de seguridad podrian inclusio facilitar el voto en un terriotiro tan conflicvto como el triangulo sunnni.
Irak, un paraiso

Jhon Negroponte, enviado a Irak después de ser el embajador en naciones unidas que representaba al gobierno de George Bush, ha dicho tambien que la seguridad en Irak durante la jornada electoral estara garantizada por 150 mil soldados estadounidenses siendo tambien muy optimista con los planes del pentagono dedicados a entrenar a las fuerzas policiales y al nuevo ejercito iraki que seran –decia el embajador, después de paciencia y esfuerzo - los encargados de la seguridsd de su pais y con sus conciudadanos los que ganaran la batalla a los terroristas.
Negroponte, , a quien pronto llevaron la contraria congresistas demócratas por lo que consideran en Irak una politica sin rumbo, tuvo tambien que explicar sus conjeturas sobre la desaparición la semanada pasada del Banco de Irak de 300 millones de dolares. Su afirmacion es que aquí no hay dinero estadounidnse, y que la campaña politica de estos ultimos dias pudo hacer posible una evasión de capitales que ahora se investiga. Medios como el NYT insinuan por su parte que los 300 millones han ido a parar al Libano para comprar carros decomabte y armas para el nuevo ejercito iraki, pero se desconoce el destino del dinero.

QUE VIENE, QUE VIENE...

Washington, DC
El temporal de nieve y frio que vivimos ha provocado ya provisionalmente cinco muertos en los estados unidos y tiene, todavía ahora, colapsadas carreteras y aeropuertos de mas de doce estados del pais, donde las temperaturas de norte a sur y siempre en la costa este , después de nevadas que llegaron a grosores de mas de 40 centimetros, han bajado esta noche entre los 10 y los 20 grados bajo cero. En Masachusset se ha declarado el estado de emergencia, mas de dos mil vuelos han sufrido cancelaciones, en especial los que tenian como salida o destino ciudades como Nueva York, Boston o Philadephia. La capital federal Washington intentara reanudar hoy la vida ciudadana como si nada hubiese ocurrido, después de sufrir el pasado sabado una intensa nevada que obligaba en muchos casos a cerrar tiendas. Comercios y restaurantes. La ciudad de Nueva York teme precisamente esta temporada de invierno, porque aun a pesar de las previsiones que nunca fallan, las autoridades municipales siempre advierten que limpiar un centimetro de nieve en la isla de Manhattan cuesta alrededor de 1millon de dolares y este fin de semana hubo que retirar un manto de veinte… lo que da idea de unos gastos publicos que tampoco dejan atrás a los privados, pues los estadounidenses se toman con calma las advertencias meteorologicas pero se lanzan a los supermercados para hacer avituallamiento de los productos de primera necesidad que provocan colas interminables antes de acabar encerrandose en sus casas.

sábado, 22 de enero de 2005

CANTANDO BAJO SEGUNDO MANDATO

Disfruta de la Fiesta de Inauguracion.
Visita y sigue las instrucciones y si te gusta... COMPRA.

Jib Jab (PINCHA EN JIBJAB)

viernes, 21 de enero de 2005

AHORA, IRAN

Llueve sobre mojado. Iran es como el Guadiana, y mas durante toda esta semana, después de que la revista NEW YORKER pronosticara una escalada militar Estados Unidos-Iran con prevision de acabar en conflicto armado el proximo verano. Los comunicados del Pentagono, los desmentidos, tenian hace unas horas, un punto y seguido cargado de preocupacion… Los medios escritos, fundamentalmente, recogen hoy las declaraciones del vicepresidente cheney al programa radiofonio de Don Imus, una estrella de la radio en la cadena NBC, capaz de hacer decir al vipresidente ante de ir a tomar posesion de su cargo que IRAN es una preocupacion, porque con su capacidad nuclear esta poniendo en peligro la region y podria muy bien hacer que Israel tuviese que atacar a ese pais –a IRAN- en aras a su propia seguridad nacional. La advertencia no ha pasado desapercibida para los comentaristas, que sin nombre, dicen a periódicos como el NYT que el aviso de Cheney siempre es una confirmación de lo que un amigo como Israel ha podido decirle a los Estados Unidos.

Si antes decia que llueve sobre mojado, es tambien porque en el examen de los senadores de la comision de asuntos exteriores a la candidata a ministra Condolezzaz Rice, la actual consejera tampoco se quedaba corta en sus advetencias. Ni por su puesto en recordar y puntualizar que IRAN esta en la lista de paises malos, aquel eje del mal donde se citaba junto a IRAK Y COREA DEL NORTE y del que solo se ha caido por la guerra el primero y al que se le han añadido otros mas… como BIRMANIA o CUBA en las respuestas de Condolezza. La jornada del dia después, por si tambien sirve de algo, ha sido utilizada por los medios de comunicación audiovisuales -en particular mas por las televisiones- para enseñar detalles que en el dia de la INAUGURACION pudieron pasar desapercibidos. El mas llamativo, para ver o enseñar en fotografia, es la bola de nieve que se estampaba muy cerca de la ventanilla del coche que inauguraba el presidente, solo unos centímetros evitaban que esa ventanilla cerrada por la que llega a verse la mano de Goerge Bush no acabese cubierta de nieve. Otra imagen para explicación, pensando en España, son los cuernos que con la mano dibujan alegres y en momentos especiales algunos miembros de la familia presidencial (en particular Bush y su hija Barbara) pues bien, evidentemente, no tienen aquí, en los estados unidos, nuestro muy particular significado sino que simplemtne son la señal de animo que se dan entre tejanos cuando esta de por medio el futbol y ademas el equipo de la universidad que los lleva como trofeo.

BAILE DE REALIDAD


Trabajo es lo que tiene garantizado George Bush después de esa misa, acto ecumenico y final de las fiestas de celebración, que en pocas horas cierra en Washington unos fastos en los que quinientas mil personas consiguieron emocionar al presidente y cincuenta mil le obligaron con sus protestas a mirar hacia otro lado, incluso un puñado, los que conseguian con la ayuda de los jueces acceder hasta cerca de la caravana oficial, en la calle pensylvania, inquietaron a la seguridad y aconsejaron acelerar el paso de la comitiva para evitar mas sobresaltos. George Bush ahora tiene que resolver con hechos lo que en el Washington Pots califican en su editorial de RETORICA DE LIBERTAD. El rotativo llega mas lejos al insinuar que sus compromisos, bien entendidos, le obligarian a poner el mundo del reves… La oposición a la tirania y las desigualdades –escriben—ignorada los ultimos cuatro años en Pakistán, en Egipto, en Arabia Saudita, en Rusia, en China— juzgando el discurso Bush, obligaria a cambiar la politica de los estados unidos hacia esos países, y muchos otros, lo que significa estar al borde de un cambio histórico. El NYT pide concreciones, aunque desde su editorial, el discruso de inauguración, dice que el presidente eligio unir mas que dividir en una comparecencia que no hara historia.

Los medios de comunicación destacan que en 21 minutos el presidente hablo 27 veces de libertad y 15 de libertades y todos, por lo general, se sorprenden del olvido intencionado –con nombre y apellidos- de Irak y de una guerra que en la ultima semana ha costado 11 muertos solo entre soldados estadounidenses. La ultima lectura para el dia después de la inauguración no es menos sorprendente, el vicepresidente Richard Cheney se ha honores de portada por la entrevista que antes de la jura del cargo concedia al programa radiofonico del celebre Dom Imus en la cadena NBC. El vicepresidente pone mas leña en el fuego que últimamente se ha encendido alrededor de las amenazas que se dirigen a Iran y a su politica nuclear. El nuevo giro de tuerca de la administración Bush pasa ahora por advertir al pueblo estdounidnse y almundo que Israel podia muy bien tomarse la justicia por su mano y atacar a Iran si lo consideran un peligro para su seguridad nacional.
Acelerar el paso

jueves, 20 de enero de 2005

BUSH, PTE EN 36 PALABRAS

"Juro solemnemente que ejerceré con fidelidad el cargo de presidente de los Estados Unidos y que preservaré, protegeré y defenderé lo mejor que pueda la Constitución de los Estados Unidos"

La tradición obliga y la Constitución dice lo que el Presidente del Tribunal Supremo de los Estados Unidos, convaleciente, enfermo de un cancer de tiroides, recordaba por delante al Presidente de los Estados Unidos, que juraba poniendo su mano izquierda sobre la Biblia, el mismo ejemplar que utilizo su padre y tambien el prImer presidente George Washington… La formula, sencilla, 36 palabras es el compromiso del Presidente de cumplir y hacer cumplir la Constitución de los Estados Unidis, a lo que algunos, como el primer y ultimo mandatario, añaden con la ayuda de Dios… Un final (que la historia recuerda) no ha sido siempre igual, como tampoco, los detalle y las anecdotas que rodean a una ceremonia que durante casi dos siglos y cada cuatro años se hacia el 4 de marzo y no el 20 de enero… Crudo invierno en el calendario de la capital federal y motivo incluso de un funesto recuerdo historico… En 1841, dicen que fruto de las bajas temperaturas y de un discurso de inauguracion que se prolongaba casi dos horas… fallecia a los pocos dias de su jura el presidente Willian Harrison, era como digo 1841 pero es todavia ahora el detalle mas tragico que se reuerda para esta jornada.

George Bush ha jurado en las escaleras del Capitolio de Washington el cargo de Presidente, comprometiendose de inmediato a liderar un mundo en el que la LIBERTAD acabe imponiendose a la tirania y donde la influencia de los Estados Unidos -no ilimitada, pero importante sea siempre utilizada en defensa de la libertad. Bush, mas compasivo que nunca, ha pronunciado su discurso de inaguracion en 22 minutos, al final fue casi interrumpido por manifestantes que intentaban desplegar una pancarta, pero ha tenido tiempo para agradecer y expresar su respeto a los aliados y declarar como objetivos inmediatos para con sus conciudadanos, conseguirles mas independencia economica –manual republicano- que les proporcione una sociedad libre capaz de enfrentarse a su destino personal. En estos momento, Bush, sus invitados y la clase politica asisten a un almuerzo de celebracion en la sede del congreso estadounidense… cangrejo y langosta, codornices y puding de limon es el menú elegido para la ocasion
Regreso a casa

REZAR, HASTA CON LOS DEDOS

W o C Es costumbre local y nacional. No es necesaraio extrañarse, pero visto en España es muy posible que para muchos George Bush se haya parecido a un ministro de la iglesia. A pesar todo –pese quien pese- Bush ha sio hoy mas que nunca el presidente de los Estados Unidos. Es curioso, pero a este lado del Alantico, si se ha hecho para todo la revolucion protestante. Aqui no hay miedo de confundir, y menos entre la clase politica, ( sean hoy los republicanos, ayer los demócratas), no hay miedo de confundir la Iglesia y el Estado, aunque si es verdad que a ojos de un europeo… y mas todavía de un español... pueda extrañarnos la costumbre estadounidense de utilizar oraciones y encomendarse a la bendicion del Altisimo en culaquier accion de la vida publica. Este es otro de los detalles que se producia hace una hora y media, en los salones del Capitolio, donde, después de comer, la oracion leida por el reverendo provocaba un minuto de recogimiento entre mandatarios, politicos e invitados que no podriamos imaginarlo si no fuera porque lo hemos visto.


Pte al paso

La puesta en escena ha respondido con creces a lo previsto. El contenido es libre de interpretaciones pero seguro que, tiempo al tiempo, puede pasar a ser uno de esos discursos para la historia, como el que pronunciara Jhon Fitzeral Kennedy en 1961… La libertad, el canto que hace George Bush en la inauguración de su segundo mandato, el canto a la libertad habra hecho recordar a muchos el compromiso demócrata e idealista del presidente asesinado. Bush tendra oportunidad de contar con mas detalles su programa en el proximo discurso del estado de la union, cita prevista para el dos de febrero, aunque ya tenemos suficientes referencias para cruzar los dedos paraque espanten los gafes que llevan siermpe aparejados los segundos mandatos…Protestas

Bush ha diho que se compromete a utilizar la influencia de los Estados Unidos –que es mucha, pero no ilimitada- para acabar con los tiranos, para luchar contra la esclavitud, para dar esperanza a quienes sueñan. El idealismo ha estado repartido como los aplausos a buenas dosis a lo largo y ancho de su mensaje.
"La mejor esperanza para la paz en nuestro mundo reside en la expansión de la libertad en todo el planeta" y si eldeseo es arrimar el hombro que no sea por falta de renovados propositos "Todos los aliados de Estados Unidos deben saber: honramos vuestra amistad, confiamos vuestro consejo y dependemos de vuestra ayuda. La división entre los países libres es un objetivo prioritario de los enemigos de la libertad. Y una advetencia después de obviar citar a Irak o Afganistán… llevar la libertad al mundo no es principalmente una tarea para las armas, pero nos defenderemos, y a nuestros amigos también cuando sea necesario" Frase lapidaria, casi advertencia al principio de su mensaje--- nuestro deber no esta definido por las palabras que uso sino por la historia que hemos vivido juntos. Y para final, el manual republicano, el compromiso de conseguir para sus conciudadanos mas independencia economica –en su mensaje una sociedad de propiertarias- donde al fin y al cabo -con la fe y la familia como norte- se refuerce una sociedad libre capaz de conseguir enfrentarse en paz y seguridad a su destino personal.