The diplomatic row between the presidents of Mexico and Venezuela should not affect the trade between the two countries, the Trade and Integration Division of the Economic Commission for Latin America (CEPAL) said here on Tuesday.

Speaking at a press conference to launch a report "A Panorama on International Integration of Latin America and the Caribbean," Jorge Mattar, CEPAL joint head, said, "From the point of view of economic development, trade and intergration, I do not see why it has to have an effect."

"I think that trade is following its own rhythm, its own rules. We -- all the CEPAL countries -- realize the benefits that integration can give, that opening up can gives, that all the signs of integration can give," said Mattar.

In recent days, Venezuelan president Hugo Chavez and Mexican president Vicente Fox have been in a war of words which came after the regional summit of the Americas in Argentina. The leaders failed to iron out differences over how to create a free trade zone in the Western hemisphere.

The CEPAL official said that the two economic visions endorsed by Fox and Chavez are "different but very respectable" and that judgement should be made based on the results of the two countries' economies.

"Trade creates well-being and development when it is accompanied by other measures which makes it a very important element in development and integration strategies," he added.

Source: Xinhua