Venezuelan President Hugo Chavez has urged Colombian rebels FARC to end up arms struggle and free hostages. Also he appealed for ending up of decades old arms struggle against Colombia's government. He said that the guerrilla war is history. The statement is uncharacteristic of Chavez and has amazed many across the world. Further he added that at this moment in Latin America, an armed guerrilla movement is out of place.

 

His new statement is contrary to his earlier appeal to the world that FARC should be de-listed from terrorist groups and should be recognized as a legitimate insurgent force. The change of stance can be traced back to the raids conducted by Colombia in attempt to catch rebels against Ecuador. Colombia has been blaming Venezuelan leader for supporting FARC and the statement seems to be a measure to improve diplomatic relations with Colombia.

 

He said that US could use FARC an excuse and added that FARC should not give an opportunity to US to intervene in Latin America. Once peace is restored in the continent US will not have any excuse to meddle in it, he said. However, a FARC statement posted recently on a sympathetic Web site said that the group was far from considering laying down its arms.