World responses

United Nations

"The secretary-general was saddened by the death of His Excellency Mr Hugo Rafael Chavez Frias, president of the Bolivarian Republic of Venezuela. President Chavez spoke to the challenges and aspirations of the most vulnerable Venezuelans. He provided decisive impetus for new regional integration movements, based on an eminently Latin American vision, while showing solidarity toward other nations in the hemisphere."

Russia

President Vladimir Putin sent Venezuela condolences on the death of his ally Hugo Chavez, calling him "an unconventional and strong person".

In a telegram to Venezuelan Vice-President Nicolas Maduro, Putin called Chavez an "outstanding leader" and "a close friend of Russia", the Kremlin said in a statement on Wednesday.

Cuba

Chavez had "stood by Fidel like a true son" during his presidency, according to a statement from the Cuban government.

Bolivia

President Evo Morales said: "We are saddened by the death of a caring brother who fought for the Patria Grande," adding that "the oligarchs of the empire are certainly having a party" with his passing.

"We are in pain. We are crushed," he said, adding "liberation, not only of the Venezuelan people but also of Latin America's people broadly, must go on".

United States

President Barack Obama said: "At this challenging time of President Hugo Chavez's passing, the United States reaffirms its support for the Venezuelan people and its interest in developing a constructive relationship with the Venezuelan government.

"As Venezuela begins a new chapter in its history, the United States remains committed to policies that promote democratic principles, the rule of law and respect for human rights," he said.

United Kingdom

Foreign Secretary William Hague said: "I was saddened to learn of the death of President Hugo Chavez today. As president of Venezuela for 14 years he has left a lasting impression on the country and more widely."

Brazil

President Dilma Rousseff said: "This death should fill all Latin and Central Americans with sadness," adding that "Hugo Chavez was without doubt a leader committed to his country and to the development of the people of Latin America". She described Chavez as "a great leader, an irreparable loss and above all a friend of Brazil".

Colombia

President Juan Manuel Santos said: "The obsession that united us and that was the basis of our relationship was peace in Colombia and the region. If we've advanced in a solid peace process ... it's also thanks to the dedication and commitment without limit of President Chavez and the Venezuelan government.

"The best tribute we can pay to the memory of Hugo Chavez is to fulfill this dream he shared with us to reach an agreement to end the conflict and to see a peaceful Colombia."

China Daily

(China Daily 03/07/2013 page11)