Venezuela told to shape up in preparation for Andean passport 2004

<a href=www.vheadline.com>Venezuela's Electronic News Posted: Thursday, May 15, 2003 By: Patrick J. O'Donoghue

Venezuelan Interior & Justice (MIJ) Ministry Juridical Security Minister, Jaime Velasquez has announced the creation of an Andean passport that would allow free transit to members of the Andean Economic Community (CAN) in member countries (Bolivia, Colombia, Ecuador, Peru and Venezuela) from 2004.  

However in the same breath,  the Minister points to internal problems caused by difficulties in bringing its national identification and migratory control procedures up to date.  

Andean Parliament president,  Jannett Madriz has called on the Venezuelan government to quickly get rid of red tape that has slowed down the process of an Andean passport. 

Venezuelan Trade Minister Jose M. Soto has  asked member countries for understanding regarding its exchange rate policy. 

Several Andean countries are hauling Venezuela over the coals for incompliance with private debt commitments. Soto has asked main plaintiffs, Ecuador and Peru to supply a list of companies owed money.