Venezuelan President Hugo Chavez will have further specialist therapy for cancer in Cuba

Venezuela's National Assembly has approved a measure that allows President Hugo Chávez to leave the country for medical treatment in Cuba.

In a written request to the legislature, which was read on television by National Assembly President Diosdado Cabello, Chavez said that doctors have recommended he "begin special treatment consisting of various sessions of hyperbaric oxygenation" and physical therapy to continue "consolidating the process of strengthening health."

Venezuelan congress president Diosdado Cabello said Mr Chavez would have hyperbaric oxygen therapy and physiotherapy,

He said the treatment was necessary after a tough electoral campaign. The request did not provide more details about the treatment

But he said Chavez would travel to Cuba as early as Tuesday, but did not state how long he will stay, though Chavez said he would be back by Jan. 10, when he is being sworn in for a Third term. Venezuelan law requires presidents to receive legislative approval before leaving the country for extended periods.

Mr Chavez, who was re-elected in October, is due to be sworn in for a third term in January.

Mr Chavez was first diagnosed with an undisclosed cancer in 2011.

He has since had repeated surgery in Cuba, but finished his treatment there earlier this year.

- Asian Tribune -