Hugo Chavez, the President of Venezuela, has vowed to stand with Syria against the “imperialist aggression” of America in the Middle East. Chavez is currently on tour in several Middle Eastern countries who oppose the policies of the US and Israel. The visits are seen as a move to gain support for a UN Security Council seat, of which the US is hoping to block. Chavez was greeted in Syria by President Bashar al-Assad at his presidential palace, overlooking Damascus. It’s reported that thousands of Syrians lined the streets to welcome him.

Chavez said, “Imperialism’s concern is to control the world, but we will not let them despite the pressure and aggression.” These statements come after it was reported that the US sent millions to opposition groups intent on taking Chavez out of power. The man with an apparent deathwish further explained his relationship with Syria. “We have the same political vision and we will resist together the American imperialist aggression.”

President Assad also had much to say about Chavez and the “great stands” he’s made in support of Arab causes. “The stance of President Chavez is known and we heard it today: support for Syria in regaining its occupied territories, and support for the Palestinian people in achieving their national rights and the establishment an independent state, in addition to the desire to help Lebanon in the post-war period… We appreciate your sincere feelings toward the peoples who have their rights and are under occupation, as well as your sincere humanitarian and moral sentiments,” Assad said through an interpreter. Chavez has been an outspoken critic of Israel and the US, most recently regarding the offensive against Lebanon. He is currently visiting about a dozen countries, including Iran and Malaysia, and just recently signed energy deals with the Syrian government.

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