Breaks in Diplomatic Relations -- Visas Still Issued?

[Arlington 5]

With the chavistas throughout Latin America throwing out U.S. Ambassadors and offering such comic pleasantries as ''Ya basta de tanta m**rda de ustedes, yanquis de m**rda'', (http://www.elnuevoherald.com/167/story/283295.html) is our visa interview in 10 days imperiled? If Correa decides to follow suit, does that mean the consulates and embassies en Mi Lindo Ecuador will shut their doors? Has anyone heard of visa interviews in Bolivia or Venezuela being cancelled?

[VivaBaños 2]

With the chavistas throughout Latin America throwing out U.S. Ambassadors and offering such comic pleasantries as ''Ya basta de tanta m**rda de ustedes, yanquis de m**rda'', (http://www.elnuevoherald.com/167/story/283295.html) is our visa interview in 10 days imperiled? If Correa decides to follow suit, does that mean the consulates and embassies en Mi Lindo Ecuador will shut their doors? Has anyone heard of visa interviews in Bolivia or Venezuela being cancelled?

I was thinking of you and your wife when I read about Venezuela's act of solidarity with Bolivia and wondering if Ecuador will follow suit.

A poster from Bolivia asked this question this morning and the responses (don't remember which thread) lead one to think that consular services continue. I have no idea and am hoping folks who have first hand knowledge or some information they can cite about such situations will post a response here.

[RobertM 0]

Our case is pending at the Embassy in Venezuela. We have an interview date in October. I have sent an email to the embassy in Caracas (who usually reply back quite quickly, within a day). Hopefully they will be able to clarify our status.

[Mononoke28 134]

I still think the best thing to do would be calling the Department of State to find out since they are in constant communication with all US embassies. I also wouldn't be surprised if Correa does the same thing since they're the Latino musketeers. Oh and let's not forget the numb nut of Ortega who I'm sure will end up doing the same for no reason whatsoever.

Diana

[Chica Yeyé 41]

Oh man that would be teh svcks.... let's hope you guys get through. I'll keep you all in my prayers.

[HAL 9000 96]

Unless the entire consular corps is expelled by the host nation or recalled by the USA, you have nothing to worry about perhaps except procurement of police documents and the like- if such public agencies play along to any policies designed to impede your process.

For the most part that "chavismo" has little effect on US consular procedures.

[Arlington 5]

Thanks to all for the comments. I feel better. I talked to people around the nation's capital today and heard the same answer from everyone . . . that the embassies/consulates don't typically close in situations such as these. Also, 24 hours have passed and Correa hasn't pulled the trigger. I heard he spent the day with Alan Garcia in Lima, who passes for an adult in South American politics. That probably helped. I read the dailies in Ecuador all day and didn't see any hints that there are any moves afoot to boot Ambassador Hodges. whew!

[TBoneTX 43,058]

Thanks to all for the comments. I feel better.

If we (more than just me) were you, we would recommend that you worry FAR more about your interview at the ####### consulate, si man.

[Chamy and Gatita 3]

My fiance has not told me anything about embassies or consulates in ecuador closing, and he is pretty on top of the political stuff there.

For what it's worth.

isn't Hodges fairly new? that may be a plus....

[gensdad515 2]

There was an article on the web with Correa commenting on the ambassadors from Bolivia and Venezuela being thrown out. He commented that he does not have any proof that the US ambassador is doing anything 'against' the Ecuadorean government. He stated that he would not throw the ambassador out unless he had proof. Now, whether that 'proof' would be doctored or not is a different story. J.

[Mononoke28 134]

I was just going to say the same thing. Unless they come up with "reasons" to throw him out. I guess we'll know in time.

Diana

[VivaBaños 2]

There was an article on the web with Correa commenting on the ambassadors from Bolivia and Venezuela being thrown out. He commented that he does not have any proof that the US ambassador is doing anything 'against' the Ecuadorean government. He stated that he would not throw the ambassador out unless he had proof. Now, whether that 'proof' would be doctored or not is a different story. J.

I read the same thing this weekend.

Makes me feel somewhat better and I dont think Correa will risk anything before the vote at the end of September--there's too much on the line.

[T and M 1]

There was an article on the web with Correa commenting on the ambassadors from Bolivia and Venezuela being thrown out. He commented that he does not have any proof that the US ambassador is doing anything 'against' the Ecuadorean government. He stated that he would not throw the ambassador out unless he had proof. Now, whether that 'proof' would be doctored or not is a different story. J.

I read the same thing this weekend.

Makes me feel somewhat better and I dont think Correa will risk anything before the vote at the end of September--there's too much on the line.

Here in Bolivia....

Diplomatic relations have not broken. Just Ambassador Goldberg declared persona non grata. The govt here has asked for Washington to send someone new....perhaps an ambassador who doesn't meet leaders of armed opposition movements. And oh, yes, the embassy is still functioning as usual. We don't need ambassadors to file visa/consular paperwork.

Sorry to be the voice of dissent here, but shi& IS going down in Bolivia. People ARE dying. Last count thirty Indians killed by armed white fascist groups trying to overthrow the govt. One state is under martial law. These are not children playing games.

Not sure whether or not Amb Goldberg was giving aid to the opposition, but getting caught on camera meeting with them was enough to secure his one-way ticket back to Washington.

Don't you think Bush would throw out a foreign ambassador who met with armed opposition groups who were engaged in overthrowing the govt?

Everything is not so simple as in "Chavez or Bush." It's quite complicated and they are having a big meeting right now in Chile to try and stop the killing. Hopefully they do and hopefully we send an ambassador down here who will help the peace effort rather than give the appearance of supporting the violent opposition.

[mari&Ryan 93]

http://bolivia.usembassy.gov/gfdflapaz.html

WARDEN MESSAGE

U.S. EMBASSY LA PAZ, BOLIVIA

September 16, 2008

The Department of State and U.S. Embassy La Paz wishes to inform you that one or two U.S. government flights may be available tomorrow to assist Americans who wish to depart from La Paz, Bolivia, for Lima, Peru. In order to make appropriate arrangements, we need to hear from U.S. citizens who wish to take advantage of this offer.

WE NEED TO HEAR FROM INTERESTED U.S. CITIZENS AS SOON AS POSSIBLE

WHILE WE ARRANGE A FLIGHT FOR TOMORROW.

Note that U.S. citizens who take advantage of the flight are legally required to sign a promissory note, Emergency Loan Application and Evacuation Document agreeing to reimburse the government for some of the evacuation costs, will be limited in how much luggage may be brought, and may not bring pets of any kind. In addition, non-U.S. citizen domestics may not use this opportunity.

If you and your immediate family members (defined as spouse and minor children) wish to depart, please contact us by telephone at (591) 2-216-8297 or e-mail at USCit.Services.Bolivia@gmail.com. You will need to provide the full name, date and place of birth, and U.S. passport number for each traveler. Immediate family members who are not U.S. citizens must be properly documented as legal permanent residents or be in possession of a valid U.S. visa. We shall provide a time and further logistical details to you after we receive your information and confirmation that you are ready to fly.

Please note that commercial flights are still available. At this time, all air carriers are flying, except for American Airlines flights between Bolivia and Miami which have been canceled until Sunday, September 21. American Airlines suggests that those travelers affected by these flight cancellations should contact AA via 800-100229 in Bolivia or http://www.aa.com to confirm flights and make reservations. You may wish to contact a travel agent for this and other specific information on available flights. All airports are open, except for airports in the cities of Tarija, Trinidad, and Cobija, in the Departments of Tarija, Beni, and Pando, respectively. This information is subject to change at any time, so U.S. citizens should stay current with media coverage of local events.

The Department of State has authorized the departure of non-emergency personnel and all family members of U.S. Embassy personnel in Bolivia and suggests all U.S. citizens defer non-essential travel to Bolivia. U.S. citizens currently in Bolivia are encouraged to depart if the situation permits, and if you remain should remain vigilant, monitor local media, and review their security posture on a regular basis.

Reported demonstrations today will keep the Embassy closed for routine services. Consular Agencies in Cochabamba and Santa Cruz are not open to the public until further notice. U.S. citizens in need of Embassy assistance should call the Embassy’s Consular Section at (591) 2-216-8297 during working hours (M-F, 8 a.m. to 5 p.m.) or 216-8500 after hours or on weekends.

U.S. citizens should be aware of possible mass street demonstrations and blockades if planning travel to or within Bolivia. Roadblocks may also affect the route to and from airports with little or no prior notice. U.S. citizens are encouraged to avoid the areas where these mass assemblies and demonstrations are expected to occur. Under no circumstances should anyone attempt to run a roadblock, even if they appear unattended. You are reminded that even demonstrations intended to be peaceful can turn confrontational between security forces, demonstrators, and bystanders, and escalate into violence. Americans are urged to avoid the areas of demonstrations and to exercise caution if within the vicinity of any protests. If you find yourself in the vicinity of a large gathering, it is recommended you leave the area immediately for your own safety.

The police are on a heightened alert for potential civil unrest. Traffic is expected to be congested throughout all major cities. Because the police will be involved in addressing potential civil unrest, there will be minimal municipal patrols. As a result, you can expect criminals to take advantage of large crowds and use ruse or diversionary tactics to prey on potential street victims. Pick-pocketing, purse snatching, and car thefts are the most common street crimes during such periods. Everyone is advised to limit their cash on hand, unnecessary credit cards, jewelry, and other portable valuables.

In addition to civil unrest in cities, it is not uncommon for roads between cities to be blocked by protesters or marchers. If you are planning to travel by land (bus, rented vehicle or other), please reconsider your travel plans and check with the local police ('Unidad Operativa de Transito') to see if the road to your destination is open. You could become a convenient target of opportunity. Please note that the police have limited capabilities outside major cities and communication is poor.

Americans residing or traveling in Bolivia are encouraged to register and update their contact information at the U.S. Embassy in La Paz, or the U.S. consular agencies in Cochabamba and Santa Cruz, Bolivia, when open. Registration may be done online and can be done in advance of travel. Information on registering may be found at the Department of State's Consular Affairs web site: https://travelregistration.state.gov.

U.S. citizens should consult the Country Specific Information for Bolivia and the latest Travel Alerts and Warnings and Worldwide Caution at the Department's web site at http://travel.state.gov. Updated information on travel and security in Bolivia may also be obtained from the Department of State by calling 1-888-407-4747 within the United States or by calling 1-202-501-4444 outside the United States. During regular work hours, the American Citizens Services unit at the Embassy in La Paz may be reached at 591-2-216-8297. The consular agencies may be reached in Santa Cruz at 591-3-351-3477 and in Cochabamba at 591-3-411-6313, when they re-open.

We hope this information is useful to you. If we may provide further assistance, please do not hesitate to contact us.

Sincerely,

American Citizen Services Unit

U.S. Embassy La Paz, Bolivia

I'm sorry

Mary

[T and M 1]

http://bolivia.usembassy.gov/gfdflapaz.html

WARDEN MESSAGE

U.S. EMBASSY LA PAZ, BOLIVIA

September 16, 2008

The Department of State and U.S. Embassy La Paz wishes to inform you that one or two U.S. government flights may be available tomorrow to assist Americans who wish to depart from La Paz, Bolivia, for Lima, Peru. In order to make appropriate arrangements, we need to hear from U.S. citizens who wish to take advantage of this offer.

WE NEED TO HEAR FROM INTERESTED U.S. CITIZENS AS SOON AS POSSIBLE

WHILE WE ARRANGE A FLIGHT FOR TOMORROW.

Note that U.S. citizens who take advantage of the flight are legally required to sign a promissory note, Emergency Loan Application and Evacuation Document agreeing to reimburse the government for some of the evacuation costs, will be limited in how much luggage may be brought, and may not bring pets of any kind. In addition, non-U.S. citizen domestics may not use this opportunity.

If you and your immediate family members (defined as spouse and minor children) wish to depart, please contact us by telephone at (591) 2-216-8297 or e-mail at USCit.Services.Bolivia@gmail.com. You will need to provide the full name, date and place of birth, and U.S. passport number for each traveler. Immediate family members who are not U.S. citizens must be properly documented as legal permanent residents or be in possession of a valid U.S. visa. We shall provide a time and further logistical details to you after we receive your information and confirmation that you are ready to fly.

Please note that commercial flights are still available. At this time, all air carriers are flying, except for American Airlines flights between Bolivia and Miami which have been canceled until Sunday, September 21. American Airlines suggests that those travelers affected by these flight cancellations should contact AA via 800-100229 in Bolivia or http://www.aa.com to confirm flights and make reservations. You may wish to contact a travel agent for this and other specific information on available flights. All airports are open, except for airports in the cities of Tarija, Trinidad, and Cobija, in the Departments of Tarija, Beni, and Pando, respectively. This information is subject to change at any time, so U.S. citizens should stay current with media coverage of local events.

The Department of State has authorized the departure of non-emergency personnel and all family members of U.S. Embassy personnel in Bolivia and suggests all U.S. citizens defer non-essential travel to Bolivia. U.S. citizens currently in Bolivia are encouraged to depart if the situation permits, and if you remain should remain vigilant, monitor local media, and review their security posture on a regular basis.

Reported demonstrations today will keep the Embassy closed for routine services. Consular Agencies in Cochabamba and Santa Cruz are not open to the public until further notice. U.S. citizens in need of Embassy assistance should call the Embassy’s Consular Section at (591) 2-216-8297 during working hours (M-F, 8 a.m. to 5 p.m.) or 216-8500 after hours or on weekends.

U.S. citizens should be aware of possible mass street demonstrations and blockades if planning travel to or within Bolivia. Roadblocks may also affect the route to and from airports with little or no prior notice. U.S. citizens are encouraged to avoid the areas where these mass assemblies and demonstrations are expected to occur. Under no circumstances should anyone attempt to run a roadblock, even if they appear unattended. You are reminded that even demonstrations intended to be peaceful can turn confrontational between security forces, demonstrators, and bystanders, and escalate into violence. Americans are urged to avoid the areas of demonstrations and to exercise caution if within the vicinity of any protests. If you find yourself in the vicinity of a large gathering, it is recommended you leave the area immediately for your own safety.

The police are on a heightened alert for potential civil unrest. Traffic is expected to be congested throughout all major cities. Because the police will be involved in addressing potential civil unrest, there will be minimal municipal patrols. As a result, you can expect criminals to take advantage of large crowds and use ruse or diversionary tactics to prey on potential street victims. Pick-pocketing, purse snatching, and car thefts are the most common street crimes during such periods. Everyone is advised to limit their cash on hand, unnecessary credit cards, jewelry, and other portable valuables.

In addition to civil unrest in cities, it is not uncommon for roads between cities to be blocked by protesters or marchers. If you are planning to travel by land (bus, rented vehicle or other), please reconsider your travel plans and check with the local police ('Unidad Operativa de Transito') to see if the road to your destination is open. You could become a convenient target of opportunity. Please note that the police have limited capabilities outside major cities and communication is poor.

Americans residing or traveling in Bolivia are encouraged to register and update their contact information at the U.S. Embassy in La Paz, or the U.S. consular agencies in Cochabamba and Santa Cruz, Bolivia, when open. Registration may be done online and can be done in advance of travel. Information on registering may be found at the Department of State's Consular Affairs web site: https://travelregistration.state.gov.

U.S. citizens should consult the Country Specific Information for Bolivia and the latest Travel Alerts and Warnings and Worldwide Caution at the Department's web site at http://travel.state.gov. Updated information on travel and security in Bolivia may also be obtained from the Department of State by calling 1-888-407-4747 within the United States or by calling 1-202-501-4444 outside the United States. During regular work hours, the American Citizens Services unit at the Embassy in La Paz may be reached at 591-2-216-8297. The consular agencies may be reached in Santa Cruz at 591-3-351-3477 and in Cochabamba at 591-3-411-6313, when they re-open.

We hope this information is useful to you. If we may provide further assistance, please do not hesitate to contact us.

Sincerely,

American Citizen Services Unit

U.S. Embassy La Paz, Bolivia

I'm sorry

Mary

Thanks for forwarding this. I hope this doesn't mean the opposition (tacitly supported by the US) is planning to start a new wave of violence against the government. It's so weird to read this considering the fact that everything is so normal here in La Paz. I'm heading downtown right now to attend the final night of the Bolivian Jazz Festival. And tomorrow I pick up my Bolivian permanent resident card!