Long Debate Ends in Pemex Reform

Thursday, October 30, 2008  |  Carin Zissis

After months of debate, Mexico’s Congress overwhelmingly approved energy reform with the goal of ending a production slump. The reforms strengthen the authority of Pemex’s management, amongst other changes. But some analysts wonder if the new laws go far enough. ... Read More

Oil Price Drop May Affect Venezuela

Friday, October 24, 2008

Since July, commodity prices have contracted, threatening spending programs and fiscal policy in Venezuela in particular. But the Chávez government remains optimistic amid cautionary calls. ... Read More

Canadian PM Calls Elections

Tuesday, September 9, 2008  |  Carin Zissis

Ottawa plans for October elections with some polls indicating the Conservative Party could gain a political majority for the first time in 20 years. While energy, the environment, and economy serve as major issues in the race, questions arise over the election's timing.  ... Read More

Interview: U.S. Ambassador to Brazil Clifford Sobel on Bilateral Partnerships

Wednesday, August 20, 2008

Relations between Brazil and the United States offer “fertile areas” to partner in the fields of resource technology, security, and private sector cooperation. ... Read More

Reheating Russo-Cuban Relations

Thursday, August 7, 2008

U.S.-Russia tensions escalate over a proposed missile shield in Eastern Europe, sparking rumors that Moscow plans to station bombers in Cuba. Though the origin and veracity of the story remain unclear, Russian leaders called for renewed ties with Cuba after the countries inked a recent oil deal.  ... Read More

The Uncertain Fate of Pemex

Tuesday, July 29, 2008  |  Carin Zissis

After experts and officials complete more than two months of debate over how to best resolve Pemex's flagging production, Mexico's opposition party holds referendums on an energy reform package proposed by President Felipe Calderón. But neither the nonbinding referendum nor the long debate have determined Pemex's future structure. ... Read More

Facing Inflation

Tuesday, June 17, 2008  |  Carin Zissis

With global commodity prices on the rise, many Latin American countries face soaring inflation. Yet experts suggest the region's economies are more well-girded than in the past to handle economic crises. The IMF's director discussed inflation at COA’s 38th Annual Washington Conference. ... Read More

Controlling a Food Crisis

Monday, June 2, 2008  |  Carin Zissis

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. ... Read More

A Change in Command at Petroecuador

Thursday, May 22, 2008  |  Carin Zissis

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.  ... Read More