Those interested in acquiring a perspective on what 2004 may bring for the Dominican Republic in the context of Latin American should attend the Fundacion Global lecture, given by Dr. David Anthony, Economist Intelligence Unit’s Global Director of Country Risk, this Thursday, 4 December at 7:30pm. The event can also be viewed through the videoconferencing facilities at Santiago’s PUCMM university. Anthony will broach the topic of Latin America in 2004, particularly mindful of the fact that the Free Trade Area of the Americas is soon due to take effect. “Many Latin American countries, particularly the smaller ones, are unsure whether the FTAA might be a trick to lure them to open up their markets without full reciprocity, or a treat, providing them with unprecedented access to the world’s market,” reads the promotion on the talk. Anthony will address the tricks, treats, tantrums and trauma of Latin American countries, the Dominican Republic included. He will also raise the issue of the key risks to global economic recovery, and whether insecurity will remain high, focusing on how oil prices would fare should tensions in the Middle East rise and whether Iraq will turn into another Vietnam for the US. Admission to the conference is free, but there are limited amounts of seats. See http://www.funglode.org/