dude...wtf??? i'm guessing they are kissing hugo's butt with this statement...otherwise they are in a different venezuela...

There are several advantages to investing in Venezuela. It should be emphasized that there has never been an expropriation in the country’s history. Labour costs are low, and diesel is only 15¢ a litre. The government also does not demand a royalty on production, instead preferring a streamlined corporate taxation structure.

Despite negative American press coverage of Hugo Chavez’s governance, explorers and operators in Venezuela have largely enjoyed a progressive work environment. The Chavez administration has not deterred serious investors and players from working and profiting in Venezuela. According to Jeff Stuart, ValGold’s head of Investor Relations, the current government has made considerable efforts to create a hospitable mining investment climate. “The government [has] actually been really, really good to us,” he said. Bureaucratic red tape is not an issue, as “we got permits in six days”. They have provided the company with government assistance and who have facilitated its work program, and have helped ValGold to avoid conflicts with artisanal Brazilian miners working in the area.