Bolivia to establish diplomatic ties with Libya

Bolivia and Libya agreed Wednesday to establish diplomatic relations and join efforts to develop the nations' energy resources. Bolivian Foreign Minister David Choquehuanca said the two countries signed a memorandum to set up diplomatic ties during a meeting with Libyan officials in La Paz. Choquehuanca said Bolivia, which has large natural gas reserves, also wants help from oil-powerhouse Libya in developing its energy sector. Leftist President Evo Morales established diplomatic relations with Iran last September, generating concern in Washington, which has tense relations with Teheran.