The basic idea is sound, but depends on a greater show of political sophistication and sensitivity than the Reagan Administration has yet managed in hemispheric affairs.

But given Washington's enormous influence in hemispheric affairs, America's support could be vital for the success of any dialogue among Venezuelans and, more broadly, for safeguarding democracy in the region.

"We consider partners like Brazil and Argentina to be responsible partners on issues like nuclear power and proliferation," said Thomas A. Shannon, the assistant secretary of state for hemispheric affairs.

He helped enhance Dominican participation in hemispheric affairs, such as the Organization of American States and the follow-up to the Miami Summit.

After the War of Independence, the relations of Mexico were focused primarily on the United States, its northern neighbor, largest trading partner, and the most powerful actor in hemispheric and world affairs.

Here is an opportunity for Latin American leaders to show they care about democracy, and to demonstrate their seriousness about wanting to play a greater role in hemispheric affairs.

It has come time for the United States to rethink the extent of its involvement in this quadrennial hemispheric affair.

Democratic Party experts in hemispheric affairs agree that if Mr. Clinton opened the gates wider to people fleeing widespread repression in Haiti, there is a strong likelihood of a new, potentially much larger round of emigration.

That is indeed a form of intervention, but far less offensive than the military intervention Washington has traditionally resorted to in hemispheric affairs.

Not one is a major factor in hemispheric affairs, and not one needs any convincing about the utility of what happened in December, so the journey has lost its meaning.