CARACAS, Venezuela: Venezuela's PresidentNicolas Madurosays he'll meet soon with Iran's President-electHassan Rowhanito further strengthen already close relations.
Maduro announced plans for a meeting through Twitter on Tuesday, saying that he recently spoke with Rowhani and they agreed to meet. He did not offer details.
Venezueladeepened trade withIranunder the leadership of the late president Hugo Chavez. Iranian companies were enlisted to help build public housing in the South American country.
Iran and Venezuela also launched joint ventures including a tractor factory and dairy plants, and the two countries have been united in their opposition to what they say is Washington's hegemony in international affairs.
Venezuela defends Iran's nuclear energy program. The West suspects Iran intends to build nuclear weapons, a charge Iran denies.