March 28, 2007
Venezuela and Italia ink cooperation accord to fight drug traffic

(El Universal) - "Italy's National Anti-mafia Public Prosecutor Pietro Grasso met with Venezuelan authorities at the headquarters of the National Anti-drug Bureau (ONA) and described the meeting as important because it laid the foundations for future international cooperation.

Grasso said he talked to the Attorney General and the People's Power Vice-Minister of Citizens' Security, who expressed their willingness to fight crime in Venezuela.

He also announced that a memorandum of understanding was initiated with the Attorney General Office opening and establishing a means for exchange of information and expertise in investigation techniques and legal training.

'We will try to establish subsequent important accords and the best commitments, as we have verified that the Venezuelan Government is taking steps to fight narcotics', said Grasso"