Venezuela Workers Oppose US Meddling
Dozens of Venezuelan transport workers staged a demonstration outside the US Embassy in Caracas Thursday over recent provocative remarks by US Secretary of State Condoleeza Rice.

President of Bolivarian Cab Drivers, Yuri Lopez, told journalists that a letter of protest was given to Ambassador William Brownfield and they expect an official statement from the diplomat.

"We expect him (Brownfield) to make a statement on the matter, as he lives in Venezuela and is aware that there has been no strike here. We hold the US government responsible for trying to stage a provocation," he said.

Speaking before the House International Relations Committee, Rice made a call for international support to an alleged strike by Venezuelan transport workers.

Lopez reiterated the workers' rejection of Rice's remarks.

Venezuela's Transport Union Confederation issued a statement that the sector unconditionally supports the Bolivarian Government led by President Hugo Chavez.

Meanwhile, the Foreign Ministry expressed concern at Rice's words as they reflect plans to foment social instability before the presidential elections scheduled for December.