Economy
Trade losses are difficult to estimate and the ordeal undergone by residents of Andean Táchira state, threatened by alleged outlaws operating in the area, is hard to imagine.

The shutdown for the second day in a row of the passage over border bridge Simón Bolívar y Francisco de Paula Santander has reduced trade to its minimum expression, José Rozo, the President of the local chapter of the Federation of Trade and Industry Chambers (Fedecámaras), told El Universal.

Daily operations, estimated at USD 4 million "are nowadays zero" due to militarization in the area following the murder on Monday of two officials of the National Guard.

Rozo termed the scenario "deserted" and noted the lack of incentive of local residents and traders due to daily threats and lack of policies from both the Venezuelan and Colombian governments to face the challenge.

"In neighborhood relations, a common enemy should be fought, which is crime," he noted.

He lamented that Venezuelan Vice-President and Acting Minister of Defense Ramón Carrizález during his visit on Tuesday failed to provide a specific plan to improve security once the troops leave and reinforce employment in the area. Rozo thinks that a stronger economy, respect for human rights and citizen's living together are a must.