French President Congratulates Chavez, Praises Venezuelan Democracy

The president of France, Nicolas Sarkozy, sent a letter to President Chavez last week, congratulating him on the victory in the constitutional referendum last week. February 23, 2009 (venezuelanalysis.com)– The president of France, Nicolas Sarkozy, sent a letter to his Venezuelan counterpart Hugo Chavez last week, congratulating him on the victory of a constitutional referendum allowing him to run for re-election in 2012.

The referendum was “characterized by strong participation that demonstrates, yet again, the vitality of democracy in Venezuela,” Sarkozy wrote.

“I hope the results will allow you to continue the policies you have implemented in the last ten years,” Sarkozy continued, “especially those improving social justice and reducing inequality in your country.”

He also expressed his desire that the dialogue and cooperation between the two countries would “further strengthen and develop in the future,” noting the ten existing agreements between them.

Chavez supporters celebrated last week after winning the electoral contest with 54.9 percent of the vote. Voter turnout was close to 70 percent.