From the very oil facilities in the Orinoco oil belt, President Hugo Chávez decreed the death of oil opening started in Venezuela in the 90's.

"Today, we are breaking an evil cycle opened in the country 10 years ago, an evil process so-called oil opening, today here in Jose (Cryogenic Complex)," stated Chávez before a massive rally.

The ceremony, performed at the Jose Cryogenic Complex, eastern Anzoátegui state, renamed by the President after José Antonio Anzoátegui, marked the seizure of operations in the eight fields that started to migrate from oil partnership to joint ventures.

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Photos: Fernando Llano (AP); Jorge Silva (Reuters); Chico Sánchez (Efe); Marcelo García (Efe)
Translated by José Peralta