Vocabulary:
I will read the words, meanings, and sample sentences. Then, repeat after me.
- halted /HAHL-ted/
- stem /stem/
- assault /uh-SAWLT/
- hinge /hinj/
- lucrative /LOO-kruh-tiv/
[adjective] – stopped or brought to a stop
The train service was temporarily suspended due to a halted signal system.
[verb] – to originate from or have its source in
The controversy stems from a misunderstanding between the two parties.
[verb] – to have physically attacked or violently confronted someone
The protestors assaulted the security guards during the demonstration.
[verb] – to depend or rely upon
The success of the project hinges on securing funding from investors.
[adjective] – (especially of a business, job, or activity) producing a lot of money
The tech industry is known for offering lucrative career opportunities.
Article reading:
Please read the whole article. Then, I will check your pronunciation and intonation.
Michoacan Governor Alfredo Ramirez expressed optimism that the halted shipments of avocados to the United States could soon resume, following a suspension of health inspections by U.S. authorities due to a recent security incident. Ramirez, speaking to Radio Formula, anticipated the lifting of the inspection suspension by midweek, aiming for resumption soon. The interruption stemmed from an episode last Friday night, involving two Mexican national inspectors from the U.S. embassy, who were reportedly improperly detained during a protest in Aranza, Michoacan—a demonstration said to support local police.
The U.S. Ambassador to Mexico, Ken Salazar, responded to the incident by confirming that the inspectors had been assaulted and detained while carrying out avocado inspections in Michoacan. He emphasized that their safety was compromised, leading to the suspension of avocado and mango exports until further security assurances were met. Despite Governor Ramirez’s optimism, Salazar stressed that the continuation of the suspension hinged on resolving security concerns rather than any sanitary issues. Michoacan, a major exporter of avocados with an annual trade value of approximately $3.5 billion, primarily to the U.S., has faced periodic export halts due to security challenges linked to gang violence in the region. Ramirez highlighted ongoing collaborative efforts with the U.S. embassy to facilitate the swift resumption of avocado exports, aiming for a potential reopening as early as possible. The uncertainty surrounding the inspection suspension underscores the economic significance of the avocado trade for Michoacan and its international partners, reflecting broader implications for global agricultural markets. As both governments work towards resolving the security incident, stakeholders await developments that could impact the flow of this lucrative commodity crucial to the region’s economy and international trade relations.
The U.S. Ambassador to Mexico, Ken Salazar, responded to the incident by confirming that the inspectors had been assaulted and detained while carrying out avocado inspections in Michoacan. He emphasized that their safety was compromised, leading to the suspension of avocado and mango exports until further security assurances were met. Despite Governor Ramirez’s optimism, Salazar stressed that the continuation of the suspension hinged on resolving security concerns rather than any sanitary issues. Michoacan, a major exporter of avocados with an annual trade value of approximately $3.5 billion, primarily to the U.S., has faced periodic export halts due to security challenges linked to gang violence in the region. Ramirez highlighted ongoing collaborative efforts with the U.S. embassy to facilitate the swift resumption of avocado exports, aiming for a potential reopening as early as possible. The uncertainty surrounding the inspection suspension underscores the economic significance of the avocado trade for Michoacan and its international partners, reflecting broader implications for global agricultural markets. As both governments work towards resolving the security incident, stakeholders await developments that could impact the flow of this lucrative commodity crucial to the region’s economy and international trade relations.
Discussion Questions:
I will read each question. Then, please answer them.
- Have you ever witnessed a protest or demonstration in your community? If not, can you imagine what effect such events might have on local authorities and businesses?
- How do you think the halting of avocado shipments could affect the economy of a region like Michoacan, which relies heavily on agricultural exports?
- Do you agree that security incidents like the one involving U.S. inspectors can have a significant impact on international trade relationships?
- How might the involvement of international inspectors in local protests affect diplomatic relations between countries?
- In what ways could governments balance security measures with the economic importance of agricultural exports, especially in regions prone to violence and protests?
Summarization
Please summarize the whole article using your own words and expressions. You will have one minute to prepare before you answer.
Describe:
Please explain the definition of each word listed below based on your understanding. You can provide example sentences if needed.
- shipment
- resume
- sanitary
- suspension
- economy