Colombia and the United States have signed an agreement granting US forces access to Colombian military bases.

With the aid of the US, Colombia wants to expand its fight against drugs and rebel movements. Leftist Latin American leaders have condemned the agreement.

Venezuelan President Hugo Chávez in particular has lashed out at the agreement which he says will destabilise the region. He said it also would allow the US to invade his country. Colombia and the US both deny having any hostile intentions against Venezuela.

Photo: Colombian demonstration against rebel movement FARC (Flickr/pattoncito)