São Paulo, March 9, 2004 (Agência Brasil - ABr) - "Argentina should not pay its foreign debt with the hunger of the population," according to 1980 Nobel Peace Prize winner, Argentinean author Adolfo Perez Esquivel, who defended the position taken by Argentinean President Néstor Kischner in the face of the demands of the International Monetary Fund (IMF).

"First, because the debt is immoral and unjust, and also for the fact that the IMF puts pressure on governments without taking an interest in the living conditions of the population," Esquivel contended, as he indicated that the correct path would be for the countries of Latin America to unite behind an international denunciation to the International Court of Justice at The Hague, demonstrating the illegality of the debts.

In his view, the international economy is only benefiting the wealthiest, disregarding the developing countries. "The only possibility for real improvement is based on a union among the nations of Latin America on behalf of common causes. No country will resolve its problems by itself."

With respect to the willingness on the part of some Latin Americans to join the FTAA, the Free Trade Area of the Americas, Esquivel affirms that "if the Latin American countries enter into the negotiations, it will be the end of their sovereignty and national and regional autonomy."

As an example, the writer cites the situation of Mexico, which, after signing a free trade agreement with the United States, saw the worsening of its economic situation, leading to an increase in poverty and marginality.

Esquivel concludes by saying that Brazil's stance in placing priority on the Mercosur is very prudent, but he suggests that Lula's government work out a common front with the rest of Latin America to defend the patrimony and national and continental sovereignty of their peoples. (DAS)