AS/COA's August 16 conference in São Paulo will focus on the Brazilian economy and the opportunities and challenges to sustainable growth, innovation, and competitiveness.

President Hugo Chávez is continuing a strategy for preferential energy agreements in Latin America while pursuing new partnerships in Argentina and Brazil. But analysts believe the country could be struggling with oil production at home.

Discussing President Dilma Rousseff's management style, COA's Eric Farnsworth told the Financial Times: “Whereas [Lula] had the big smile and the ability to wink and nod and get people to do their jobs as he saw them, [Rousseff] has a more direct approach.”

Beginning August 2, justices will try 38 defendants accused of involvement in a massive congressional vote-buying scandal.

The Andean country becomes a full member of the regional bloc on July 31. Will the new membership increase trade among members, or jeopardize the organization?