Venezuela Seeks to Wrap Up Talks, End OAS Role, Paper Says

Caracas, May 9 (<a href=quote.bloomberg.com>Bloomberg) -- Venezuela said it is willing to sign an agreement with the opposition for a binding referendum on President Hugo Chavez, ending about seven months of talks, El Universal reported, citing government officials.

The government wants a quick agreement to end the talks, which would allow Organization of American States Secretary General Cesar Gaviria to cease his involvement in negotiations, government negotiators said. Gaviria, who has been criticized by the government for being too pro-opposition, has been mediating the talks since they began in November.

We repeat our disposition to sign an agreement,'' Education Minister Aristobulo Isturiz was quoted as saying. Remaining differences would be settled in the bodies where they need to be settled, such as the Supreme Court, the electoral council and the national assembly.''

Venezuela's opposition has said it plans to seek a binding referendum on Chavez's presidency after Aug. 19 when the former paratrooper passes the halfway point of his term in office. Negotiations over holding the vote continue.

(EU 5/9, 1-2) For El Universal's Web site, click on {EUDC }

Last Updated: May 9, 2003 09:03 EDT