CARACAS (AP): President Hugo Chavez says Venezuela is already working with Russia to develop nuclear power for peaceful purposes.

Chavez says Venezuelan and Russian technical teams have begun working in preparation for Russian President Dmitry Medvedev's visit later this month.

Venezuela would use nuclear energy to fuel the health and electricity sectors, he said Friday.

Venezuela has strengthened ties with Russia under Chavez, purchasing more than $4 billion in Russian weapons since 2005.

Medvedev's arrival on Nov. 26 will mark the first time a Russian president has visited Venezuela.