Bolivia To Take Control

The government of Evo Morales is seeking to take control of 10 companies partially privatized over the past decade. The companies include national carrier Lloyd Aereo Bolivia (LAB), Entel, Petrolero Chaco and Petrolero Andina. The government has said it will initially look to buy shares in these companies but if necessary pursue other means to wrest control away from foreign investors. Morales was elected on a pledge of ensuring greater control by Bolivia of its assets, in particular its natural resources.