Speaking earlier at the First International Anti-Imperialist and Decolonization Gathering, Mario Rodriguez, representing Costa Rica’s Water Workers’ Union, called for coordination among the region’s social movements, trade unions, and indigenous peoples.

After noting that imperialism and its policies threaten the peoples’ freedom and self-determination, Rodriguez argued “that natural resources must remain under the stewardship of the people and not be subject to external interests,” Radio Kawsachun Coca station reported.

The Costa Rican leader also denounced attempts by the United States government to establish a US base on his nation.

Former Bolivian President Evo Morales said at the three-day meeting that the “Shield of the Americas,” led by the United States and comprising conservative regional governments ostensibly to combat drug trafficking, represents a revival of Operation Condor.

This nation’s first indigenous president also warned, without specifying details, of the potential consequences this new Washington-boosted program could have for the independence of Latin American peoples.

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