The eight-point resolution was the first firm development from three months of frustrating talks guided by the Organization of American States and backed more recently by a six-nation group led by the US.

But a source close to the negotiations said the document carried no sanctions and the feuding sides appeared no closer to a deal on elections to end their political conflict in the world's No 5 oil exporter.

The agreement includes references to freedom of expression, the media's role in promoting peace, condemns violence and also urges a toning down of aggressive language, the source said.

OAS Secretary General Cesar Gaviria, who has guided the talks, said the government and opposition would sign the resolution yesterday.

Rebel workers at the state oil firm PDVSA, more than 12,000 of whom have been fired for going on strike, have vowed to keep up a protest until Chavez leaves. The fate of the oil workers will prove a further sticking point during peace negotiations.

(China Daily February 19, 2003)