August 29, 2005
Venezuela eyes constructive relations with US

(Xinhuanet) - "Venezuela hopes to form relations of understanding and respect with the United States, Foreign Minister Alí Rodríguez Araque said.

The Venezuelan diplomat told in a press conference that his country looks forward 'at least' to having constructive relations with the United States.

Venezuela, the fourth oil supplier to the United States, holds important relations with the US energy sector, and is ready to extend bilateral exchange to other areas, he said.

The Venezuelan crude destined to the United States amounts to 60 percent of its total exports.

'We demand mutual respect so as to achieve healthy relations as other countries do,' Rodríguez said".