For those who didn't read one of my previous posts, he is the Associated Press reporter from whom Roy got the infamous quote.

My feelings are mixed as to what he says. The first sentence is great but after that, I don't know. I offer it to our forum to analyze as you will.

In answer to your question, President Chavez did not clearly state what role Russia would play in helping Venezuela with the gold mining project. I was listening to Chavez myself, and although I don't have his precise comments in front of me, all he said was that with Russia's help Venezuela is going to exploit the mine. He referred to the newly created Russian-Venezuelan state bank at another point in his speech and did not specifically mention financing for the mining project. I hope this helps answer your question.

Best regards,
Ian James