President Hugo Chávez said a proposed Free Trade Area of the Americas (FTAA) "is dead," on his arrival in Argentinean coastal resort of Mar del Plata for participation in the fourth Summit of the Americas.

He also ensured that the "US empire is weak," as evidenced by the fact that regional presidents and heads of government are to endorse a declaration that is to leave FTAA aside.

"FTAA is dead and we are attending a funeral here (in Mar del Plata)," Chávez told reporters.
  
He also sent "Bolivarian and heartfelt greetings to the Argentinean people," as well as to "all the peoples whose representatives are participating in this summit."

Chávez is to deliver a speech at the closing ceremony of the so-called third Summit of the Peoples, an event parallel to the Summit of the Americas and organized by groups opposed to free trade negotiations.

"Only people can save our nations, only unity shall make us free," the Venezuelan ruler said when confirming his attendance to the event.

"We will be there, we are very inspired and enthusiastic," he added.

The final event of the Summit of the Peoples is to take place at 40,000-seat stadium of Mar del Plata. Besides Chávez, former soccer star Diego Maradona, and singers Silvio Rodríguez, from Cuba; Daniel Viglirtt, from Uruguay, and Víctor Heredia, from Argentina, are to participate in the closing ceremony.