Latin American Natives Expand in Politics
The Indigenous peoples agree on increased political involvement in domestic policy at the Third Indigenous Summit of the Continent in Guatemala.

Under the slogan "From Resistance to Power" over 2,000 indigenous leaders meet at the Iximche ceremonial site to discuss the right to land, autonomy, free determination and political commitment.

Progress since the 2004 Summit in Quito, Ecuador, includes Indigenous president Evo Morales in Bolivia, main reference of the on going changes in Latin America," said Blanca Chancoso.

The Quechua leader of Ecuador said the meeting is a key element to assemble a single agenda and advance in the struggle for their ancient rights.

Bolivian Foreign Minister David Choquehuanca explained the process underway in his country to recover sovereignty, identity and natural resources, like the nationalization of gas.

Peruvian leader Miguel Quispe said the peoples are more articulated and have new leaders capable of leading national organizations and indigenous movements in the continent.

The meeting will also address the aftermath of structural adjustment caused by the US-devised Free Trade Agreement and the impact of neoliberal globalization and militarization of villages.