Venezuela's Minister of Planning and Development Jorge Giordani talks to the media during a news conference to announce new economic measures, in Caracas October 8, 2009. Venezuela's government forecast on Thursday economic contraction or zero percent growth for 2009 and promised more bond issues this year following this week's sale of $5 billion in dollar-denominated debt. Reuters Pictures 1 month ago

Venezuela's Minister of Planning and Development Jorge Giordani talks to the media during a news conference to announce new economic measures, in Caracas October 8, 2009. Venezuela's government forecast on Thursday economic contraction or zero percent growth for 2009 and promised more bond issues this year following this week's sale of $5 billion in dollar-denominated debt.

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  1. Supporters of Venezuela's President Hugo Chavez cheer him during a graduation ceremony for students of a government education program in Caracas, Wednesday, Dec. 2, 2009.
  2. SHENZHEN, CHINA - NOVEMBER 29: Alfredo Adrian and Jhonattan Vegas of Venezuela walks to the third hole during Foursomes on the final day of the Omega Mission Hills World Cup on the Olazabal course on November 29, 2009 in Shenzhen, China.
  3. CARACAS, VENEZUELA - NOVEMBER 27 In this handout photo provided by the Palesinian Press Office (PPO), Palestinian President Mahmoud Abbas (R) arrives in the Venezuelan capital on November 27, 2009 in Caracas, Venezuela. The Venezuelan stop is part of a South American tour taking in Brazil, Argentina and Chile to build support for a Palestinian state.

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