Chávez asks the world for a firm stand in defense of Venezuelan democracy

Havana. February 8, 2003 www.granma.cu

CARACAS, February 7.— President Hugo Chávez today called on the world for a firm stand for Venezuelan democracy while addressing the accredited diplomatic corps in the country.

After receiving the traditional New Year greetings from ambassadors and business attachés, Chávez stated that ambiguities are not helpful when analyzing the present situation in the country.

"We are asking you to acknowledge and tell the truth, because there is a democratic, legitimate and re-legitimized government here, and a people firmly attached to the Constitution, for which reason there can be no negotiation with coup supporters and terrorists," he added.

He referred to the "savage campaign of lies" against the government being waged by the private media, which is causing confusion abroad.

"Our government has to be acknowledged for its battle for justice and equity and against poverty, and its consistent and ongoing extreme respect for liberties, but a government that is prepared to apply its laws.

Chávez stated that the government is considering adopting measures to deal with the private TV channels for legal violations and asked diplomats to tell the truth and explain the reasons for that action, without linking it to attacks on freedom of expression.

The president also referred to legal measures being taken against companies hoarding products.

He informed that members of the recently formed "group of friends" of Venezuela had requested an amnesty for managers and technical staff sacked for sabotaging the Petróleos de Venezuela Company, but discounted that possibility "given that we pardoned them last April and they used it to conspire against the nation."