DATE=9/18/1999
TYPE=CORRESPONDENT REPORT
TITLE=CHILE / SPAIN (L ONLY)
NUMBER=2-254056
BYLINE=JONATHAN FRANKLIN
DATELINE=SANTIAGO
CONTENT=
VOICED AT:
INTRO: Relations between Chile and Spain worsened even
more this week after Spanish authorities rejected a Chilean
proposal to let an arbitration panel decide the fate of
former Chilean dictator Augusto Pinochet. Mr. Pinochet,
the former military ruler of Chile, has been under arrest
in London since last October, when Spain sought his
extradition from Britain to put him on trail for human
rights abuses committed during the years the military ruled
Chile(1973-1990). From Santiago, Jonathan Franklin reports.
Text: Chilean Foreign Minister Juan Gabriel Valdes called
the Spanish officials involved in the Pinochet case
"arrogant and pathetic" for refusing to agree to
arbitration.
The Chilean government has temporarily recalled (on Friday)
its ambassador to Spain as a sign of its displeasure over
the Spanish decision.
The Chilean senate also took steps to show its displeasure.
On Friday, it pushed forward new laws that would limit
foreign control of the banking and electricity sectors, two
areas where Spanish firms play a key role. Analysts say
that, given the widespread indignation in Chile against
Spain, the measures will attract a broad base of support and
most likely force the Spanish companies to divest
themselves of their electrical and banking interests in the
country.
Until several days ago, the Chileans hoped they would be
able, by means of arbitration, to keep the Pinochet case
out of European courtrooms. Though it is not clear which
country first proposed arbitration, there were signs that
both would agree to it, but these signs evaporated when
Spanish socialists learned of the plan. Their protests are
believed responsible for the Spanish rejection of
arbitration.
The poor relations between the countries could become even
worse should the ailing General Pinochet die in either
England or Spain. Right-wing paramilitary groups are
threatening to kill leftist politicians should Pinochet die
in custody. (Signed)
NEB/JF/KL
18-Sep-1999 17:27 PM LOC (18-Sep-1999 2127 UTC)
NNNN
Source: Voice of America
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