The Uses of Aid by Victor Nieto http://mrzine.monthlyreview.org/2011/vicman170411.html

"[T]he aim of aid is to 'corrupt' the governing classes. Apart from the financial appropriations (which, alas, are well known and for which we are led to believe that the donors are in no way responsible), aid has become 'indispensable' as it is an important source of financing budgets and fulfils a political function. . . . Hence it is important that it is not reserved exclusively and wholly for the classes in power, for the 'government.' It must also give stakes to 'oppositions' that are capable of succeeding them. The so-called civil society and certain non-governmental organizations (NGOs) have a role to play here." -- Samir Amin

"Yes, the Americans are trying to ride the wave. They are trying to take advantage of this revolution. They are trying to curb and absorb this revolution. . . . This is the most serious danger, the greatest danger which our peoples in revolt, out resistance movements, must be aware of and be vigilant against. . . . That does not mean that the US administration has plotted or is working to overthrow the regime which serves it. However, it has been preparing itself for what could happen. . . . It is trying to present itself in a different way -- as defender of people and their choices -- and trying to guarantee the kind of transition of power, authority, and leadership that would preserve all its relations and alliance, the American project and interests." -- Hassan Nasrallah