Nicaragua announces state of emergency to end energy crisis
Nicaraguan President Enrique Bolanos on Monday ordered a state of economic emergency for 180 days in an attempt to tide over an energy crisis that has forced a three-hour-a-day rationing in the supply of electricity in the country.

Venezuela brushes aside rumors of president's health condition
Venezuelan President Hugo Chavez isin good health after he canceled his weekend radio and TV show and participation in a pro-government march, a government official said Monday.

New charges filed against Pinochet for human rights violations
Four new charges were filed against former Chilean dictator Augusto Pinochet on Monday for his presumed involvement in executing four left-wing militants in 1973.

Paraguayan Congress for Equality in MERCOSUR
Paraguay´s Senate declared in favor of the creation of a egalitarian parliament for the Southern Common Market (MERCOSUR).

Brazilian Armed Forces Seizes 10 Tons of Drugs
The Brazilian Armed Forces seized almost 10 tons of drugs during an operation on the 1,230 km (764.3 miles) border with Paraguay and Bolivia Monday, informed Brazil"s Agencia Estado.