Venezuela ? Raul Castro began his first international trip as Cuba’s president in Venezuela on Saturday, a symbolic choice of destination aimed at strengthening ties with the island’s socialist ally and main benefactor.

Venezuelan President Hugo Chavez has long been a close ally of Raul Castro’s iconic older brother — Fidel Castro — who in February ceded power to the 77-year-old Raul because of illness. Chavez’s support for Cuba’s communist government and his fierce criticism of U.S. policy have irritated officials in Washington.

“Welcome to your home,” Chavez said as he hugged Castro at the airport outside Caracas, where marines dressed in white uniforms stood in formation. “Your visit is an honor for us.”

The choice of Venezuela as Raul Castro’s first foreign trip reflects Cuba’s reliance on the oil-rich South American nation’s backing.