Chávez helps Argentina during energy shortage

Venezuela has signed a number of energy deals with Argentina, also indicating its willingness to purchase as much

as $1 billion in Argentine bonds to help fund a $400 million gas plant in that country.

Venezuela’s helping hand comes at a critical time when Argentina is experiencing energy shortages during cold winter months.

President Hugo Chávez has given Latin American countries access to Venezuela’s oil wealth at preferential prices and is working to build regional cooperation in energy exploration. Greater independence from the volatile world oil market will strengthen Latin America vis-à-vis U.S. imperialism.

“We need to unite and the North American empire doesn’t want us to unite,” Chávez told the press. “It is a battle of interests, but we will win this battle.”