NEW DELHI, March 5 (Xinhuanet) -- India and Venezuela signed a framework agreement here on Saturday to boost cooperation in the exploration and refining of oil.

    A Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) was signed for cooperation in the hydrocarbon sector and another for oil exploration and production between India's ONGC Videsh Limited and Venezuelan Petroleum State Company PDVSA.

    "We have come to offer India friendship and cooperation, specially in the field of hydrocarbons," said Venezuelan PresidentHugo Chavez, who is on a four-day visit to India starting on Friday.

    "We are impressed with strong resolution of the prime minister to strengthen our relationship," said Chavez, who met Manmohan Singh here Saturday. He also met the ruling United Progressive Alliance chairperson and Congress President Sonia Gandhi.

    "We will help India to increase its oil production. If all goeswell, India will be self-sufficient soon in oil exploration and production," Chavez told reporters here. He also passionately expounded on the growing friendship with India and its spiritual roots in affection and mutual regard for each other.

    Venezuela is the world's fifth largest oil producer and an active member of the Organization of Petroleum Exporting Countries(OPEC).

    Four other MOUs were signed regarding establishment of a jointcommission; cooperation in bio-technology; cooperation in space science and technology; and technology sharing in building and maintaining railways.

    The joint working group will meet periodically to assess and review projects of energy cooperation, alternately in New Delhi and Venezuelan capital Caracas.

    Chavez will pay a visit to Kolkata and Banglaore, the country'sIT hub. Enditem