Russia is playing a vital role in maintaining a global balance of power, Venezuelan President Hugo Chavez said on Friday.
Chavez arrived in Moscow on October 14 for talks with his Russian counterpart Dmitry Medvedev.
"The role of Russia in maintaining a global balance is great," Chavez told the Russia Today TV channel in an exclusive interview.
"I believe that Russia, its people, its culture, its depth, its history, and its new leaders will take responsibility and will make contribution... to the balance of a world, which will be really free," he continued.
Chavez's visit is part of his international tour, which also includes Belarus, Ukraine and Iran.
He last visited Russia in September 2009 after announcing his country's recognition of South Ossetia and Abkhazia.
MOSCOW, October 15 (RIA Novosti)
