The supporters of turning U.S. seaports over to the management of Dubai Ports World, a state-owned United Arab Emirates company, tout Dubai as a fun-loving mecca of westernized living.
What they don't mention is that the "glittering oil-rich city, one of seven sheikdoms making up the UAE, is home to Indian and Russian mobsters, Iranian arms traffickers, and a banking system that was used to funnel money to the 9/11 hijackers." U.S. News & World Report, March 6, 2006.
Lou Dobbs reported on his February 27 Lou Dobbs Tonight broadcast that the UAE has forbidden CNN interviews because of Dobbs vigorous reporting on Portgate. No silly things like freedom of speech in the United Arab Emirates! Dobbs, a lifelong Republican, said he has the full support of CNN and plans to continue his coverage of U. S. port and border security issues.
Remember, regardless of how much lipstick you put on this tawdry deal, the UAE is still a royal oligarchy with rulers and subjects and used to getting their way. And, lucky for them, President Bush is looking out for their best interests too!
One other silly little detail. The Bush administration loudly proclaimed that there were no security concerns raised over the P&O takeover deal. Turns out that is not true. The Coast Guard raised such issues last December!
The sale is going to close this Thursday, March 2. So the promised a 45-day review will be after the fact. The majority leader of the Senate, Bill Frist, after vigorously objecting to the port deal with Dubai Ports World, has now fallen into line with the Bush administration. Bush, after threatening his first veto ever in support of the DB World takeover, will have the final say. Looks like the United States is a Bush oligarchy, public outrage be damned!
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