Venezuelan ambassador to Chile Víctor Delgado told Chilean newspaper La Tercera that Caracas may seek support from Santiago to join the UN Security Council, in the light of the United States open rejection to such an idea.

"We do expect support from Chile, but we cannot force it, that is what the empire would do," La Tercera Tuesday quoted Delgado as saying.

The diplomat asserted that "it is possible" that President Hugo Chávez seizes the opportunity next March 11th, when he is to attend Michelle Bachelet's inauguration, to make a formal petition of endorsement, DPA reported.

Last week, outgoing Chilean President Ricardo Lagos dismissed claims that he talked to Washington to create "an anti-Chávez front."

Next December, Argentina is leaving a position vacant as non-permanent member of the UN Security Council. Guatemala is also trying to fill this position. The UN should make a decision on this topic during its next general assembly.