Chavez visits Cuba and meets Fidel Castro (updated)

UPDATES: After a five months absence from public view. 81 year old Fidel Castro appeared in a footage with President Chavez during his recent visit to Cuba. Castro is seen wearing sport garments and in an improved health.

Caracas, Venezuela, 16 June 2008. Today, Venezuelan President Hugo Chavez travelled to Cuba on an official visit to increase bilateral relations. Upon arrival in Havana,  President Chavez asserted Fidel Castro´s good health. Furthermore, he also confirmed Raul Castro was harnessing power in the island.

According to local news network Globovision, Chavez and Fidel Castro would discuss current world and regional affairs such as the food crisis and oil prices. In addition, they would be analysing the Bolivarian Alternative for the Americas (ALBA) initiatives such as a regional bank. Just few days ago, Ecuadorian President Rafael Correa stated his country would not be joining ALBA.

Speaking from Cuba, Chavez took the opportunity to condemn the US intention to allegedly build another army base in Colombia once it closes one in Ecuador.  

Sources: Globovision, Unionradio, YVKE, Telesur, El Universal, El Pais,   

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