Ambassador

US warns Morales of 'serious' effects US

Ambassador to Bolivia Philip Goldberg has warned that his expulsion from the country will lead to serious consequences.

"The decision by President Morales to lower the level of our bilateral relations constitutes a grave error," Goldberg told reporters Sunday.

Bolivian President Evo Morales has expelled the US ambassador, accusing him of supporting opposition figures. Goldberg, however, has denied allegations, calling them false and unjustified.

The relations between our two countries have been sustained for more than a century, the envoy said, adding the decision could have many serious effects for Bolivia.

Clashes have broken out in Bolivia between supporters of Morales and governors who want more autonomy. Violent unrest has also led the president to declare marshal law in one rebel state.

Morales met on Friday with Mario Cossio, the governor of natural gas-rich Tarija province who said he would represent three other opposition governors.

The four rebel governors fiercely oppose Morales's plans, demanding more autonomy and more revenues from gas exports.

South American presidents plan to gather in Santiago Monday to prevent further civil strife in Bolivia.

(Published by Press TV - September 15, 2008)