Annan, President Chávez discuss issues surrounding G-77, crisis in Venezuela

With Venezuela handing over chairmanship of the Group of 77 developing countries today at United Nations Headquarters in New York, Secretary-General Kofi Annan took the occasion to meet with President Hugo Chávez to discuss several issues concerning the caucus and well as the situation in that country.

According to a readout of the meeting provided by a UN spokesman, the talks addressed the efforts of the Secretary-General of the Organization of American States, César Gaviria, and the manner in which the UN could help Venezuela overcome the current crisis.

President Chávez expressed his views on the state of affairs and on further ways to find a solution, the statement said. He explained that a first step had been taken toward the formation of a Group of Friends of Venezuela.

"The Secretary-General reiterated his concern regarding the situation and emphasized the need to take further steps in accordance with the Constitution and respect for democratic principles, justice and human rights," the statement said. "The problem of governability in the country requires concerted efforts from all sides to reduce tensions. This is a process in which the international community could be of assistance."

Earlier Thursday, President Chávez told a press conference that once established, the Group of Friends could assist "Venezuela and its government and institutions, and could benefit democracy" in the country. As for the idea of former Prime Minister Felipe Gonzalez of Spain serving as a mediator from the Group, President Chávez replied that he did not have any information about Mr. Gonzalez's role.

"The Secretary-General had said to me that given our request that some personal envoy come from him to participate in those efforts," a list of candidates was currently under review, President Chávez said.