One has to wonder what the countries that do business with Chavez, think about him..Even the sociasist contries. I mean, Chavez has SUCH a loose mouth, and makes SUCH ridiculous and outrageous comments. I guess Irans Akmejinahad? is in the same league) I can't imagine China's leaders,who are always so close mouthed and secretive, and very conservative in their public comments, think anything other than that he is a very crude, crass, and unstable leader. They may support his socialist values, but watching him crashing and flailing about, making promises and threats, without actually doing anything?

They really want to establish the biggest footprint in SA as they can, and very likely see Chavez as a willing and pliable (eager and stupid?) leader. Surely they will have diplomats (agents) on the ground, and know what the actual situation is in VZ.

The only thing I can think of, as to why the Chinese have not made a deal for LC, would be that they don't like the limits on gold sales, internationaly. It may be that soon, with no new investments coming in, that Chavez will loosen up on some rules.

Let's hope someone close to him either makes him see the light, or arranges to have him see 'the light at the END of the tunnel' !!

pen