U.S. Secretary of State Colin Powell has criticized Venezuelan President Hugo Chavez's style of governing, questioning Mr. Chavez's commitment to democracy and the war on terrorism.

Secretary Powell told the Senate Foreign Relations Committee Tuesday the United States is concerned about some of President Chavez's actions and his understanding of democracy.

While refusing comment on allegations Venezuela is supporting leftist rebels in neighboring Colombia, Mr. Powell did criticize President Chavez's visits to countries the United States considers enemies.

Mr. Chavez has traveled to Iraq and Cuba and is an ally of Cuban President Fidel Castro. The Venezuelan leader, who was elected in 1998, has been widely accused of seeking to establish a Cuban-style government in Venezuela, a major oil producer.

Meanwhile, Venezuelan Foreign Minister Luis Alfonso Davila tells the Reuters news agency Mr. Chavez's foreign policy does not require the approval or authorization of other governments. He also said Venezuela's foreign policy seeks to satisfy the interests of the nation.

Some information for this report provided by AP and AFP.

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