The Albany Gazette - Venezuela's 'joropo' dance declared a UNESCO treasure

It has Indigenous, African and European roots and originated in plains along the border between Venezuela and Colombia.

Joropo is performed to the sound of instruments including a harp, maracas and violin as lady dancers swirl and male partners stomp their feet in rapid succession to the rhythm of the music.

The women wear colorful dresses and men don suits and wide brim hats.

The designation was announced by UNESCO at a meeting in New Delhi in which the UN cultural organization is examining dozens of candidates to be declared world intangible cultural assets.

Venezuelans welcomed what they called good news as they endure a tense military standoff with the United States.

American warships are stationed off the coast and regularly attacking what Washington says are boats smuggling drugs from Venezuela.

President Nicolas Maduro says the real goal of the US operation, which has raised fears of an outright US attack on Venezuela, is to oust him and his leftist regime.

"We deserve this happiness, given the madness we are living," said Caracas resident Cesar Marcano.

"I am happy that our culture is being recognized and I hope the Venezuelan people give it the importance that it deserves."

Joropo was declared a Venezuelan national cultural asset in 2014.

(K.Jones--TAG)