Summit of the Americas: ‘Actions, not words’ after the handshakes

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1. Brett
   

   Another test for the new era in US foreign relations has just transpired. The White House said that the next few weeks may determine whether it has begun a new relationship with Latin America, especially with Venezuelan leader Hugo Chávez who has indicated he wants to be friends with Barack Obama after finding him to be an ‘intelligent man.’ A representative of the National Security Council in the White House said that ‘some countries have begun anew but while the connection, handshakes, smiles, and photos are important; they are not the main thing.’
   
   Obama and Chavez both attended the summit and warmly shook hands in camaraderie. Another new friend is Nicaraguan President Daniel Ortega who just recently attacked US foreign policy. Behind the handshakes, the call remains, however, as ‘Actions, not words’ because these will truly prove that US foreign relations has indeed taken a new turn and tack.
   
   The need for action was also a message that the White House forwarded to the Cuban regime which has expressed its willingness to talk ‘on an equal footing’ with the US on human rights or democracy. Demanding the release of political prisoners and respect for human rights, White House says that Cuba has a wonderful opportunity to bring action to words.

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