Mercosur summit tackles EU immigration law

AFP via Yahoonews ^ | 06/29/2008

[Republicain]

TUCUMAN, Argentina (AFP) - The 10 leaders of the Mercosur trade bloc meeting here Monday and Tuesday are expected to condemn the EU's new immigration rules, discuss plans for regional integration and address the global food crisis.

Ecuador President Rafael Correa, after arriving here Sunday, complained about the European Union's so-called "returns directive" that criminalizes illegal immigration, allowing up to 18 months' detention prior to deportation and banishment from the EU for several years.

Correa called the measure a "shameful directive" and told reporters he would be among the first Mercosur leaders to sign a statement to condemn it.

Bolivian President Evo Morales echoed the sentiments: "When some Latin Americans try to improve their living conditions in Europe, they come face-to-face with discrimination and racism."

The EU measures, which could come into force in 2010, have been strongly criticized by human rights groups and most Latin American governments, many of whose nationals live in Europe and send millions of dollars back home to their families.

Venezuelan President Hugo Chavez has even threatened "the return of European investments" in his country to protest the harsh immigration rules.

[Soliton]

and most Latin American governments, many of whose nationals live in Europe and send millions of dollars back home to their families.

In other words, Latin American governments are criminal enterprises