December 19, 2005
Venezuelans confident over economy

(Prensa Latina) - "Venezuelans are optimistic over prospects for their country's economic future, a survey by the Datanalisis enterprise reveals.

According to the poll, 60 percent of the 1,300 people interviewed is confident the general economic situation next year will be better, and only 15 percent said the opposite.

The poll shows 42 percent of interviewees noted their situation next year will improve, 17 percent said it will be much better, and 19 percent indicated it will remain the same.

The Datanalisis study, made between November 24 and December 3, explained over half of those polled people from different social strata, affirmed their condition in the coming 12 months will be favourable.

A recent report by the Economic Commission for Latin America and the Caribbean (CEPAL) pointed out Venezuela will close 2005 as the country with the highest economic growth in the region, with an estimated 9 percent growth of the Gross National Product.

In his radio-TV program 'Aló Presidente', Venezuelan President Hugo Chávez said the country will continue struggling to reducing poverty, adding his second government plan will enter into force in 2006".