In the news today we see references that Bush is hosting Colombian leader Alvaro Uribe in Crawford, Texas
today. For all of the rhetoric about democracy and freedom, it's telling that one of the most oppressive regimes in South America is the Bush Administration's strongest ally and the biggest rat hole for money from American taxpayers.
The visit comes just a day after the State Department announced that Colombia meets human rights standards, allowing more money to be delivered to the rat hole.
More in extended...
Bush welcomes Colombia president to ranch
Their meeting comes just a day after the State Department announced that Colombia's government and armed forces have met human rights standards needed to qualify for full funding of U.S. assistance programs. Colombia has received more than $3 billion in U.S. aid during the past five years as part of an effort to wipe out cocaine and heroin production and crush the long-running leftist insurgency.
Congress imposed conditions on U.S. assistance to push Colombia to curb human rights abuses. Failing to meet the standards would have meant a cut of about $70 million, according to a State Department estimate.
Amnesty International USA quickly challenged the certification made by Rice.
"This decision is a major blow to the promotion of human rights in Colombia and is based on only the narrowest reading of the law and the thinnest of evidence," said Dr. William F. Schulz, executive director of the group.
Obviously, the administration is aware of Uribe's hidden past, which was rewarded by a visit to the ranch. It's also telling to look at the list of foreign dignitaries who have visited the ranch. Quite the hall of fame of human rights and democracy...