Havana (ANTARA News/Xinhua-OANA) - Cuban leader Raul Castro welcomed his Venezuelan counterpart Hugo Chavez as the latter arrived in Cuba midnight Saturday for his third session of radiotherapy to treat cancer, local media said Sunday.

The leaders had an "animated and cordial talk" at the airport, the official daily Juventud Rebelde said.

Chavez Friday said he would return to Havana "to fight for his health and life."

Before leaving Caracas, Chavez said he would return in time to take part in celebrations marking the anniversary of the April 11-13, 2002, attempted coup by the country`s opposition, which succeeded in forcing him out of power for 48 hours.

Chavez also predicted he would win the presidential elections on Oct. 7, and urged the opposition "not to try another violent (coup) attempt again."

"Those who want to see me out of the presidency" should run for the office by registering as candidates, he said.

Chavez is running for a third presidential term after 13 years in power, saying he wants to continue his economic and social programs for the welfare of the poorest sectors of his country.
(U.P012/H-AK)

Editor: Priyambodo RH
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