Contributions from Carin Zissis
In recent days, Venezuela's President Hugo Chávez shifted tone on several policy fronts and urged the FARC to end its armed conflict with the Colombian government. But Chávez's critics complain he continues to attempt to silence opposition.
World leaders convene in Rome to discuss worldwide security. Latin American countries face challenges associated with rising food prices and seek measures to stave off a food crisis. An AS/COA update examines regional food production and supply issues.
President Rafael Correa appoints a new head of state-owned Petroecuador after official figures show a slowdown in crude oil production. The move comes after Ecuador proposed to cut windfall taxes for private firms and signed a refinery agreement with Venezuela.