Jimmy Carter's tribute to 'bold' Hugo Chavez

7:23am, Wed 6 Mar 2013Hugo Chavez dies aged 58
Jimmy Carter's tribute to 'bold' Hugo Chavez
Last updated Wed 6 Mar 2013

Former US President Jimmy Carter has paid tribute to Hugo Chavez, the Carter Center observed the 2000 elections in Venezuela.

“
Although we have not agreed with all of the methods followed by his government, we have never doubted Hugo Chávez's commitment to improving the lives of millions of his fellow countrymen.

President Chávez will be remembered for his bold assertion of autonomy and independence for Latin American governments and for his formidable communication skills and personal connection with supporters in his country and abroad to whom he gave hope and empowerment.

“
During his 14-year tenure, Chávez joined other leaders in Latin America and the Caribbean to create new forms of integration. Venezuelan poverty rates were cut in half, and millions received identification documents for the first time allowing them to participate more effectively in their country's economic and political life.