Costa Rica seeks energy deal with Venezuela

Costa Rica may join Guatemala in seeking an oil agreement with Venezuela, said Costa Rican Environment and Energy minister Roberto Dobles.

Dobles told AP that the proposal could come next May 8th, when the new local government, headed by Oscar Arias, is taking office.

"Venezuela will be suggested this opportunity. The inauguration act is very special. The proposal could be made then, timely. Otherwise, we will do it later," he said.

Both President Hugo Chávez and Guatemalan ruler Oscar Berger are scheduled to attend Arias inauguration. A few days ago, Berger said he would make an energy proposal to Chávez on such occasion.