Re:A rushed Colombia pact,
Editorial Nov. 25
Your editiorial describes Colombia as "a country torn by civil war and human rights violations," with "one of the worst track records on human rights in this hemisphere." Your writer, and MP Serge Cardin, apparently do not read modern accounts of the enormous political and economical development of this beautiful and strongly democratic country, where various Canadian businesses are successfully operating.
President Alvaro Uribe, now serving a highly popular second term, has relegated the remaining small bands of narco-terrorists to remote corners of the country, insists on strict observation of human rights (he recently fired several army generals for unethical behaviour) and runs a widely accepted government supported by a strong legal system that inhibits corruption – all without a secret police.
Michael G. Woolgar, North York
In announcing the free trade agreement with the murderous Colombian government while attending the APEC meeting in Lima, the prime minister has once again brought disgrace upon the nation at an international forum. The government now sanctions the financing of fascist paramilitary death squads making Canada an accomplice to the assassination of thousands of innocent Colombians advocating for justice. This is a betrayal of the principles for which our soldiers fought in World War II, for the benefit of the greedy interests of the corporate elite. Stephen Harper seems to be incapable of comprehending the concept of human decency. Has he no shame? Will the opposition have the courage and moral fortitude to defeat this reprehensible action?
Bill Prestwich, Dundas
