Saturday, September 24, 2005

Interview with Chavez


I think everyone should read this. This is an interview the Washington Post did with Hugo Chavez.

Whether you agree with him or not, these are the opinions of a majority of world leaders. I happen to agree with him.

I think one thing about this interview that might surprise people is how well-spoken and rational Chavez is. He says something in his interview that really smacks of the message we've been carrying with This Divided State as well:

"I could deal with President Bush. I would like very much to be able to debate issues with him. I would like to transform this confrontation, this aggressive rhetoric, into a mature, serious debate on common issues. With President Clinton, we were able to sit and talk. But with this administration, it is impossible to talk because they want to impose things on you. If Mr. Bush changes his procedures and approaches, it would be excellent to talk and discuss current issues." --Hugo Chavez

Instead of trying to impose our ideals on Chavez, why don't we just talk to him and learn how to co-exist?

Is that too much to ask? Apparently, for this administration it is.

1 comment:

Anonymous said...

After reading the interview and being pleased at how honestly and intellectually he responded to the questions & agreeing with most of what he said, even though I have my own issues with Castro and socialismo from folks i know who aren't doctors in Cuba - i only have one question to your comment.

You said, I think one thing about this interview that might surprise people is how well-spoken and rational Chavez is.

why would Chavez not be well-spoken and articulate? He's a world leader, as you said. It almost sounds like the classic "gosh, he speaks good English for a [insert minority here]" comment. Was it something else?