Colombian, Spanish Diplomatic Missions in Caracas Bombed

www.voanews.com VOA News 25 Feb 2003, 23:43 UTC

Venezuelan authorities say at least four people have been injured after powerful bombs exploded in the Colombian and Spanish diplomatic missions in Caracas.

Officials say the bombs exploded within 15 minutes of each other Tuesday, first at the Spanish Embassy and then at the Colombian consulate. The blasts left the facades of both buildings in shambles and damaged nearby structures.

No one immediately claimed responsibility for the attacks, but authorities say leaflets signed by a pro-government group were found scattered at both sites.

The trouble comes two days after Venezuelan President Hugo Chavez accused Colombia and Spain of siding with his opponents.

The two countries, among others, had expressed concern about the government's recent arrest of business leader Carlos Fernandez.

He helped organize Venezuela's two-month general strike that was aimed at forcing President Chavez to resign and call early elections. Venezuelan Deputy Foreign Minister Arevalo Mendez condemned the attacks, saying authorities will find the people responsible.

State Department spokesman Philip Reeker said the bombings and other recent developments in Venezuela highlight the need for that government and its opponents to uphold a recent agreement to avoid violence.

The Atlanta-based Carter Center, which works around the world to mediate conflicts, also called on both sides to abide by the commitments stated in the accord. Last year, the Carter Center sent a delegation to Venezuela in an effort to bridge the country's political divide.