Maduro says Chávez gives written orders

Venezuelan President Hugo Chávez remains breathing through a tracheal tube and communicates via written messages, ordering government's decisions from the hospital in Caracas, Vice-President Nicolás Maduro reported today.

Maduro assured he had a 5-hour meeting with the Head of State at the hospital in which they adopted measures "to fight plots" against the Venezuelan economy.

During this encounter, Chávez approved other political and social decisions. "We met for five hours and a half in a work session with President Hugo Chávez," Maduro continued.

Regarding Chávez's health, Maduro said "he's being treated, the breathing problem is being intensely treated and he communicates with us by writing messages to orientate us, he is making a huge effort."