Russia, Venezuela presidents to meet in Moscow on Tuesday

Chavez will visit Russia on July 22-23 at the invitation of the Russian president. He is expected to discuss during his working visit increasing the military-technical cooperation, and trade and economic contacts between Moscow and Caracas. The Venezuelan president had said in an interview to Itar-Tass that “comprehensive cooperation of Venezuela and Russia is strategic”. He stated that Russia was ready to help industrial development of Venezuela, and it was planned to discuss the establishment of a joint bank and an investment fund. Chavez also said Venezuela was going to buy Russian-produced tanks. “These are very modern and fast tanks,” he said. The Venezuelan president showed interest in importing Russian anti-aircraft systems and means for strengthening the navy. Russia had offered Venezuela credits for purchase of military equipment and weapons, Chavez said.