Western Hemisphere
Venezuela's President Hugo Chávez threatened late on Tuesday to completely close the border with Colombia and ordered a reinforced military surveillance in the area, following the killing of two National Guard troops in the area, which increased tensions between the two Andean countries.

"We have not (ordered the closure of the border). But if the situation escalates, we could do it. One of the measures we are discussing (is) to declare the emergency on the border and … close it," said the socialist leader in a cabinet meeting broadcast by the state-run TV network.

The recurrent diplomatic tensions have become a political risk factor for investments in both countries due to their increasing impact on bilateral trade, including textile, food and fuel, which last year hit a record exceeding USD 7 billion, Reuters reported.

"I am making a call to continue fighting. We are taking all the necessary measures (such as) the increase of (military) units across the border," Chávez added, after holding Colombia responsible for recent violence in the volatile area.

Witnesses reported that dozens of Venezuelan soldiers blocked on Tuesday the main crossing point between the two countries. They stationed an armored vehicle with a machine gun to prevent the traffic of cars and people.

Hundreds of people were forced to cross the border on foot carrying suitcases, bags and goods. Long lines of vehicles were seen in both custom offices waiting for Venezuelan military officials to lift the blockade.