Richardson hopeful about rebel-held U.S. hostages

SANTA FE, N.M. (AP) - Governor Richardson plans to visit Colombia soon to resume efforts to secure the release of three American hostages held by rebel forces.

Richardson says he talked recently with officials in Colombia and Venezuela.

He says there's a window for some kind of humanitarian progress with the hostages.

He offered no details.

He also gave no exact date for returning to Colombia.

The Democratic governor visited Colombia in March and met with the country's president.

In April, he met with Venezuelan President Hugo Chavez, who agreed to try to help facilitate the release of the hostages.

The Americans have been held hostage since 2003. Their families asked for intervention by Richardson -- who has had some success in hostage negotiations.

(Copyright 2008 by The Associated Press. All Rights Reserved.)