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BUENOS AIRES – Global FeedThe South American Union's Ministry of Culture and Social Affairs announced early today its proposal of "direct technical assistance" for cultural heritage preservation and educational programs to Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, United States. This proposal follows the Philadelphia City Council's rejection of the U.S. Department of Culture's new historical reinterpretation of the 'Liberty Bell Monument' inscription, and the federal government's subsequent indication of a partial freeze on federal funds to the city.The South American Union's statement lauded the Philadelphia City Council's decision as a "courageous act to defend historical truth and protect regional cultural autonomy." It strongly condemned the federal government's suggestion of a funding freeze as an "unjustifiable pressure on cultural self-governance."In response, the U.S. Federal Department of Culture immediately issued a statement, vehemently denouncing the South American Union's actions as "an act of internal interference and an unacceptable affront to the sovereignty of the United States." It also suggested that the federal government would consider "further stringent measures" should the Philadelphia City Council accept aid from the South American Union.The Philadelphia City Council has stated that it is currently reviewing the South American Union's aid proposal. This development clearly indicates that the conflict between the U.S. central government and its local administration is escalating into an international diplomatic issue due to the intervention of the South American Union. The dispute between the two powers over culture and historical interpretation appears to have entered a new phase.