Reformers across the world identify with ailing Venezuelan President Hugo Chavez's leading role in Latin America, Nicaraguan Vice President Omar Halleslevens said Sunday.

Halleslevens said Chavez is not only a national leader in Venezuela, but a political figure whose influence has been extended to the whole region and the world at large.

"Hugo Chavez not only belongs to Venezuela... Hugo Chavez belongs to all of the Americas," he said.

Halleslevens voiced the hope that Chavez will make a full recovery and return to the presidency.

Chavez, 58, underwent a fourth operation on December 11, but then contracted a lung infection that has complicated his recovery.

He was re-elected in October last year to another six-year term, but was too ill to attend inauguration scheduled for January 10.