nationalization
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Iraq’s Oil for Iraq

Feb 20, 2010
In an announcement that was one part election hackery and one part good domestic politics, the Iraqi prime minister has declared that his country will not sell the rights to any more of its oil fields to foreign companies, a move that signals an intent by Iraq to develop its own national oil industry.

¿Zapping Zapata?

Apr 9, 2008
Mexican President Felipe Calderon released his plans Wednesday to give greater autonomy to the country's nationalized oil monopoly PEMEX, a move criticized as privatizing the industry that constitutes 40 percent of federal income. With domestic oil production falling for the past six years, Calderon has had to negotiate his pro-business politics amid steadfast public opinion against denationalization.

Bush Calls for End of Communism in Cuba

Mar 7, 2007
While preparing for his Latin American tour, the president suggested that Cuban communism should die with Fidel Castro. Bush also took a shot at his nemesis in the region, Venezuela's Hugo Chavez, for his recent decision to nationalize some private industry: "I strongly believe that government-run industry is inefficient and will lead to more poverty." Before passing judgment, remember that our president is, in fact, an expert on government inefficiency.

Chavez Terrifies Corporations

Jan 9, 2007
Hugo Chavez announced plans on Monday to nationalize companies in Venezuela's telecommunications and power industries, saying: "All that was privatized, let it be nationalized." The recently re-elected president has ramped up efforts to transform Venezuela into a socialist society, while at the same time consolidating his power.