The following resolution was passed by the Australian Council of Trade Unions in November.
The ACTU Executive congratulates and supports the Venezuelan government for its utilisation of the country's wealth and resources for reforms to benefit working people, the poor and the landless.
We note the results of the referendum last August in Venezuela that gave President Hugo Chavez an overwhelming victory and a strengthened democratic mandate.
The ACTU further notes that these results confirm that there is overwhelming support amongst working people and the poor for the social program of the Chavez government in relation to education, literacy, job training, health care, land reform and subsidised food.
However, we view with concern the statements being made by the US administration and the oligarchy in Venezuela, which pose a real threat to these reforms.
We express our solidarity with free, independent and democratic trade unionists in Venezuela and reject any outside interference in their affairs.
We note the independent poll in July that showed over 70% support for Venezuelan President Hugo Chavez. We also note the Venezuelan threat to suspend oil exports to the US if attacks on its government continue.
We resolve to support the Venezuelan people's efforts to preserve their freedom and democracy and especially their right to a democratically elected government.
From Green Left Weekly, December 7, 2005.
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