February 27, 2005
Venezuela and China keep strengthening economic links

(Prensa Latina, reproduced by Periodico 26.cu) - "A Venezuelan government delegation has successfully wound up a visit to China in search of foreign markets, state-of-the-art production methods, development of national industry and foreign investment.

It also discussed with their hosts ways to modernize agriculture and improve social benefits. The Venezuelan delegation led by Minister of Economy Elías Jaua; Food Minister, General Rafael J. Oropeza, and Lara State Governor Luis Reyes, visited Shandong province where it signed a letter of intent with the Shandong Agricultural Sciences Academy to exchange experiences.

Under the deal, Chinese agricultural experts will work in Venezuela. The letter involves cooperation in the management of lands, environment protection, human resources, genetic research and crops, among others.

Venezuela continued its negotiations for a Chinese sisal-processing plant in Venezuela, third largest producer of this plant after the United States and China. Sisal has large fleshy leaves, which yield a stiff fibre used for making rope.

Both countries analyzed issues of common interest on science and technology, trade and investments. They also reached an agreement to repair and modernize Venezuela's railway network, thus continuing a project that had begun in 1999".