Evo Morales's rhetoric as a presidential candidate for Bolivia was often contradictory, but the radical leader and former coca farmer struck one note of consistency on the recent world tour that followed his remarkable landslide election last month.

In high-profile meetings with the leaders of Spain, France, China and South Africa, Mr Morales wore the same lively red, white and blue striped sweater, projecting the same casualness that helped endear him to about 54 per cent of Bolivian voters.