(Prensa Latina) - "During his visit to Caracas, Ecuadorian Vice President Lenin Moreno, who s main priorities are issues of social interest and bilateral cooperation, met with Venezuelan Vice President Jorge Rodríguez.

Moreno expressed sincere thanks from Quito to the Venezuelan authorities for the collaboration already provided in several areas.

Visits to Children s Cardiology Hospital, to Nucleus of Endogenous Development 'Fabricio Ojeda' NDEFO, as well as a meeting with Venezuelan President Hugo Chávez are among Moreno s planned activities.

At the end of 2006, Ecuador's then recently-elected President Rafael Correa signed a joint declaration with Chávez in favor of cooperation to strengthen political, economic, social and cultural relations between their peoples and governments.

The energy issue was particularly highlighted, with PDVSA offering to refine the oil Ecuador requires, as it cannot do so in its territory.

The Venezuelan state company will begin analyzing cooperation with state Petroecuador to modernize and increase refining capabilities, while Venezuela will share its experience in technical development and specialist training in the sector".