[Report by Gustavo Ocando: "Science and Technology Minister Dismissed"]

Sources close to the ministry have disclosed that President Hugo Chavez dismissed Nuris Orihuela, People's Power Minister for Science, Technology and Intermediate Industries, over differences regarding pacts signed with Iran.

According to ministry officials, Orihuela had an argument with the chief o state during his [international] tour over agreements signed between Venezuela and Iran to manufacture Iranian tractors and automobiles on Venezuelan territory.

"The argument is related to Iran's automobile factory in Aragua. There are also differences over science and technology pacts signed with Cuba and Japan," one of the sources pointed out.

According to the sources, the argument made Orihuela to return to the country before Chavez finished his tour. Yesterday, the minister received a call from the president, who told her about her dismissal.

The sources said that the announcement of the official's removal will become official in the next hours. Jesse Chacon, People's Power Minister for Communications and Information, will be appointed acting minister.

It has not been ruled out that Chacon's appointment in this ministry will become permanent, similarly to Ramon Carrizalez, who serves as both vice president of the Republic and head of the Defence Ministry.

In late April, Orihuela would have completed a year at the helm of the ministry. Last year, she replaced Hector Navarro, who is currently serving as People's Power Minister for Education.

To a great extent, the dismissed minister is believed to be responsible for the success of the launching and activation of the Simon Bolivar satellite.

Source: El Nacional website, Caracas, in Spanish 7 Apr 09

BBC Mon LA1 LatPol ta