SANTIAGO, Nov. 9 (Xinhua) -- Ecuadoran President Rafael Correa said on Friday he opposes indefinite presidential reelection in Ecuador, saying that what is applied in Venezuela may not be suitable in his country.

    "Alternation in power is essential for democracy," Correa, who was here for the 17th Ibero American Summit, told the local daily "La Tercera."

    "Our position is that all public officials, including the president, should only be re-elected once," he added.

    Venezuelans are scheduled to vote on a series of constitutional reforms expanding President Hugo Chavez's power and paving his way for another reelection in 2012.

    Calling the idea of indefinite presidential reelection "absurd," Correa said what is applied in Venezuela may not be suitable in Ecuador, although he shares the ideals of socialism with Chavez.

    "That is absurd, because democracy implies alternation," Correa said.

    The 17th Ibero American Summit, which began on Thursday, will end on Saturday with a final declaration.