Is Hugo Chavez alive? is a question that is likely going to gain popularity over the coming months. Apart from obscure family photos the other day, the Venezuelan president has not been seen since going to Cuba for treatment on his recurring cancer.
The latest news from the Venezuelan front is that Chavez has instructed diplomats to improve relations with the United States. This move could reflect the inner strains of Venezuela's other foreign partners. Chavez has consistently courted American adversaries, including Syria and Iran. Syria has been embroiled in civil war for two years. Iran has elections looming and its economy has been all-but shuttered by sanctions. Venezuela still does have ties with China, but China's economy has slowed and its potential clash in the South China Sea would not necessarily benefit Venezuela. The US meanwhile continues to buy oil from Venezuela, though lessening US reliance on oil could hamper not only the country, but the significant benefit that high oil prices have brought it. Sending oil to China is more complex and costly than to the US.
This could certainly be an opportunity to mend relations between the two countries. More importantly, it could be an avenue through which to build post-Chavez ties. Who knows how much longer he will hold on to power, or be around, for that matter.
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