Chavez votes Royal... and invites his "friend" Chirac

Via ExtremeCentre (it seems that French daily Le Figaro, strangely, hasn't got the wire anymore).

Chavez's "heart" is beating for Ségolène Royal

Venezuela's president gave his unconditional support in the French presidential election to the socialist candidate. "We don't know her, but because she is a woman and a socialist, our heart is for her", he said.

(...)

Venezuela's president also reiterated his affection for France's current president, Jacques Chirac. He confirmed that, a couple of days ago, he talked on the phone with Chirac who "has been a good friend" and sided with Venezuela in difficult moments.

"The French president has been an excellent friend (and) I invite him to come here to rest, hopefully he will visit us one day", said Chavez.