CARACAS, Aug. 29 (Xinhuanet) -- Venezuela hopes to form relations of understanding and respect with the United States, Foreign Minister Ali Rodriguez Araque said Monday.

    The Venezuelan diplomat told a press conference here that his country looks forward "at least" to having constructive relations with the United States.

    Venezuela, the fourth oil supplier to the United States, holds important relations with the US energy sector, and is ready to extend bilateral exchange to other areas, he said.

    The Venezuelan crude destined to the United States amounts to 60 percent of its total exports.

    "We demand mutual respect so as to achieve healthy relations as other countries do," Rodriguez said.

    Venezuela and the United States have been at odds since Venezuelan President Hugo Chavez took office six years ago.

    Caracas criticized Washington for supporting an abortive coup aimed at overthrowing the Chavez government in April 2002. Chavez also said Washington had plans to invade Venezuela and assassinate him, but the US government denied the charges. Enditem