"Today's announcements are tangible results that flow from the historic decisions taken by Libya's leadership" to renounce terrorism and weapons of mass destruction, Secretary of State Condoleezza Rice said May 15.

While announcing expanding ties to one oil exporter, the United States clamped down on another, saying it is banning arms sales to Venezuela because of what it says is a lack of support by President Hugo Chavez's government for counterterrorism.

The announcements came as the West grasps for carrots or sticks to counter what it claims is a growing risk of nuclear proliferation in Iran.

By taking Libya off the terrorism sponsorship list, the Bush administration clears the way for broader economic ties with the oil-producing nation during a period of record-high gasoline prices in the United States.

The Japan Times Weekly: May 20, 2006
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