Hugo Chavez made diplomatic inroads in Africa at a summit of South American and African leaders where he offered Venezuela’s help in oil projects, mining and financial assistance.

Tullow Oil has announced its subsidiary, Energy Africa Gabon SA (EAGSA), has entered into a participation agreement with Forest Oil Gryphon Marin BV whereby EAGSA will earn a 15% working interest in the Gryphon Marin permit in the southern Gabon offshore.