Venezuela's Maduro announces start of negotiations with opposition

CARACAS, July 9 (Xinhua) -- Venezuelan President Nicolas Maduro on Monday told state television that a government delegation has begun talks with the opposition in Barbados, with the participation of the Norwegian government.

"Today they had a five-hour session, and I think that step by step, with strategic patience, we can find a path to peace," said Maduro, adding that he was "very optimistic."

The Barbados gathering is the third round of the Norway-mediated talks between the two camps since they first met in Oslo in May.