President Hugo Chávez denied claims by the Venezuelan opposition that is a tyrant.

His comments came in an interview published Tuesday in an Italian newspaper a few days before his visit to Italy (October 16-19), news agency AP reported.

"I am well aware that some people claim I am a tyrant. They say whatever they want: tyranny is not mine, but of those who want to deny education and healthcare to most of the population," he told La Stampa of Turin.

The Venezuelan Embassy to Italy refused unveiling Chávez' agenda during his visit. Sources said, however, he is to attend the ceremony of the 60th anniversary of the foundation of the UN Food and Agriculture Organization. He is also to visit Italian senior officials.

Chávez also rebutted that there is a tyranny in Cuba: "They claim that there is tyranny in Cuba too, but what Cuba really has is a revolution ensuring jobs, education and healthcare."

"In Cuba just like in Venezuela, there is a process of liberalization," he asserted.

He announced that the next step in his revolution is fighting against large estates. "Private property is not sacred; it has to be in harmony with public needs."