Colombia denies hostile designs toward Venezuela, denies Chavez claim of helicopter incursion
{{#rendered}} {{/rendered}}BOGOTA, Colombia (AP) — Colombia's government says it has never considered attacking Venezuela, saying Venezuelan President Hugo Chavez is deceiving his people by claiming Bogota may have such designs.
A statement Saturday by Colombia also denies an allegation by Chavez that a Colombian military helicopter encroached Venezuelan airspace for five minutes.
Tensions have heightened since Colombia released evidence July 20 it says shows Venezuela gives haven to Colombian rebels.
{{#rendered}} {{/rendered}}Chavez severed diplomatic relations in response, and said Friday he is sending troops to the border in case of attack.
Colombia's president, Alvaro Uribe, leaves office in a week. Chavez says he hopes to resume ties with President-elect Juan Manuel Santos.