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You are here: News News Brazil president urges Obama to explain Colombian bases plan to South Americans

Brazil president urges Obama to explain Colombian bases plan to South Americans

Colombia news - Lula

Brazil's leader is urging President Barack Obama to meet with South American nations and discuss the growing U.S. military presence in Colombia.

President Luiz Inacio Lula da Silva told Obama in a phone call that many nations are worried about the plan to give the U.S. greater access to seven military bases in Colombia.

Brazil's Foreign Minister Celso Amorim gave details about the conversation to the O Globo newspaper Friday.

The U.S. says the plan is part of its agreement with Colombia to battle drug traffickers and leftist rebels.

But leaders like Venezuela's Hugo Chavez say it is a serious threat to the region. Chavez has suggested the U.S. could unseat Latin American leaders via coups launched from the bases. (AP)