Neocommunist commentators and pundits live their lives trying to convince Venezuelans and the world of two factoids about Venezuelan-Colombian relations:

1. Colombia and Álvaro Uribe are militarist and, therefore a menace to regional peace.
2. Venezuela and Hugo Chávez are peaceful and loving revolutionaries.

Contrast between Colombia's and Venezuela's independence celebrations. In Colombia they give a concert with Shakira, while in Venezuela they give a military parade (Photos courtesy of Venezuela y su historia & Radio Nacional de Venezuela).

Isn't it curious then that Colombia celebrates her independence day with a concert with Shakira as main star, while Hugo Chávez celebrates Venezuela's independence with a military parade?

As professor Balladares does I want to send a heartfelt congratulation to my Colombian friends, for such civilized way to celebrate their independence.

 Venezuela, International