President Bharrat Jagdeo last week signed a treaty in Brasilia to establish the so-called Union of South American Nations (UNASUR). Comprising Argentina, Brazil, Bolivia, Chile, Colombia, Ecuador, Paraguay, Peru, Suriname, Uruguay and Venezuela, in addition to Guyana, the fledgling union is aimed at promoting continental integration, with particular emphasis on strengthening political dialogue, economic cooperation, social cohesion, energy integration, environmental protection and infrastructure development.
Once ratified by its members, in accordance with their respective constitutional requirements, UNASUR will begin to take formal, operational shape. It will have three councils – at the level of presidents, foreign ministers and delegates – and a secretariat in Quito, Ecuador. Heads will meet annually (yes, more summits!) and foreign ministers every six months. Sectoral ministerial meetings will also be held as determined by the presidents. Former Ecuadorian President Rodrigo Borja has reportedly been nominated for the position of Secretary General and Chile’s President Michelle Bachelet will be the first to hold the rotating presidency of UNASUR.
