Venezuela is marking the 200th anniversary of its independence from Spain, with President Hugo Chavez back from cancer surgery in Cuba. A military-civilian parade has been held in Caracas and street parties are taking place across the country. President Chavez, who made a surprise return on Monday, followed events from the presidential palace. It is a key date for Mr. Chavez, who says independence hero Simon Bolivar is his inspiration. The celebrations began at midnight with a fireworks display. Later on Tuesday, an urn containing Venezuela's declaration of independence was opened in the presence of government leaders, with the exception of President Chavez.

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