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<p>Atomic energy was one of many areas of cooperation discussed as Russian Prime Minister Vladimir Putin made his first visit to the South American country.</p>

CARACAS, Venezuela — Russia has offered to help Venezuela set up its own space industry, including a satellite launch site, as Prime Minister Vladimir Putin made his first visit to the South American country on Friday. Venezuelan President Hugo Chavez announced Russia's offer before Putin arrived, saying officials would discuss the possibility of setting up a "satellite launcher and a factory." The two countries are also discussing new weapons deals, Chavez said Thursday night in televised remarks, without giving details. Chavez has built close ties with Russia, buying more than $4 billion in Russian weapons since 2005, including helicopters, fighter...