In Ecuador the government lost power to an Indian-supported military coup, the first seizure of power by the armed forces in Latin America in over ten years. Internal and diplomatic pressure led to a quick restoration of civilian rule.
The presidents of South America's 12 countries met for an economic summit in Brasilia, Brazil (See 2000, Aug. 31–Sept. 1). Headed by Pres. Cardoso of Brazil, the conference focused again on the goal of establishing free trade in South America by 2005.
