The U.S. has a problem with Venezuela, that's just too bad
Militante | 06.02.2002 08:24 | Venezuela
WASHINGTON, Feb. 5 (Reuters) — Secretary of State Colin L. Powell, testifying before the Senate Foreign Relations Committee, today criticized the leftist president of Venezuela, Hugo Chávez, expressing concern about his views on democracy and the war on terrorism.
February 6, 2002
"Powell Faults Venezuela's Leftist Leader"
By REUTERS
Secretary Powell made the remarks in response to a question about allegations that Venezuela is supporting leftist guerrillas in neighboring Colombia.
"We have been concerned with some of the actions of Venezuelan President Chávez and his understanding of what a democratic system is all about," Secretary Powell said.
He added that the United States had asked regional allies to suggest to Mr. Chávez that there are perhaps better ways to "deal with the challenges his country is facing."
Since winning election in 1998, Mr. Chávez has introduced what he calls revolutionary policies to help the poor, including redistribution of land.
Opponents accuse him of trying to impose a Cuban-style leftist government on Venezuela, whose main oil market is the United States.
In Caracas, Foreign Minister Luis Alfonso Dávila defended Mr. Chávez's foreign policy, saying it was "sovereign, independent and autonomous" and did not require the approval of other governments.
"Powell Faults Venezuela's Leftist Leader"
By REUTERS
Secretary Powell made the remarks in response to a question about allegations that Venezuela is supporting leftist guerrillas in neighboring Colombia.
"We have been concerned with some of the actions of Venezuelan President Chávez and his understanding of what a democratic system is all about," Secretary Powell said.
He added that the United States had asked regional allies to suggest to Mr. Chávez that there are perhaps better ways to "deal with the challenges his country is facing."
Since winning election in 1998, Mr. Chávez has introduced what he calls revolutionary policies to help the poor, including redistribution of land.
Opponents accuse him of trying to impose a Cuban-style leftist government on Venezuela, whose main oil market is the United States.
In Caracas, Foreign Minister Luis Alfonso Dávila defended Mr. Chávez's foreign policy, saying it was "sovereign, independent and autonomous" and did not require the approval of other governments.
Militante
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Chávez is disliked by many Venezuelans
07.02.2002 12:06
Daniel Brett
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dan@danielbrett.co.uk