Chavez Thanks Shakira For Red, Autographed Guitar

Venezuelan President Hugo Chavez is thanking Colombian singer Shakira for an autographed red guitar that he says the artist sent him as a gift.

Chavez says he stayed up late strumming on the electric guitar and singing songs.

He told Venezuelan state television on Sunday: “Thanks to Shakira for that.”

Information Minister Andres Izarra posted a photo of the guitar on Twitter after it arrived on Saturday.

Chavez said the musician asked to see him when she performed in Caracas in March, but that her flight was late and they were unable to meet.

Photo: AP Photo

Figali Conv. Center / Plaza Figali, Panama City, Panama

Chavez says he was surprised by the gift, and has been practicing on the instrument while recovering from a knee injury.