Demonstrations mark opening of APEC summit in Chile
Last Updated Wed, 17 Nov 2004 19:23:16 EST
http://www.cbc.ca/story/world/national/2004/11/17/apec041117.htmlSANTIAGO - High level talks on free trade and global security got underway in the Chilean capital, as ministers from 21 Pacific Rim countries convened for the Asia-Pacific Economic Co-operation (APEC) summit.
University students clashed with police in a protest against the gathering.
Hundreds of the protesters were doused with tear gas and knocked to the ground with water cannon.
The protesters expressed opposition to the U.S.-led war in Iraq, as well as the widening gap between rich and poor. More protests are expected throughout the week.
U.S. President George W. Bush is scheduled to arrive at the summit on the weekend.
APEC, which represents the United States, Canada, Japan, Russia, China and most Southeastern Asian economies, accounts for more than half of the world's trade.
Written by CBC News Online staff