Bill Richardson: Venezuela's Chavez willing to 're-engage' in negotiations to free US hostages

Venezuelan President Hugo Chavez is "ready to help re-engage in negotiations" for the release of three American hostages held captive by rebels in Colombia, a visiting U.S. governor said late Saturday.

New Mexico Governor Bill Richardson told The Associated Press in a telephone interview that he plans to put forward a proposal for the release of the three U.S. defense contractors in the coming weeks and that Chavez is willing to work with him as a "primary mediator."

The Democratic governor met with Chavez at the presidential palace on Saturday night to discuss the issue. Chavez did not release any statements following the meeting.

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