Venezuela ? Four hostages were freed by Colombian rebels Wednesday after six years of captivity and flown to Venezuela, where they appealed to President Hugo Chavez to help press for the freedom of all remaining hostages.

The ex-lawmakers were released Wednesday in a gesture coordinated with Chavez as the leftist rebels seek to put pressure on Colombia’s U.S.-allied government and persuade the international community to strike them from lists of terrorist groups.

“You’ve given me the opportunity to live again,” hostage Gloria Polanco said as she was freed in a Colombian jungle clearing, thanking Chavez for allowing her to see her three grown sons again.

The four were reunited with relatives amid tears, hugs and grasped flowers at Caracas’ international airport.

Then Chavez welcomed them to the presidential palace, where Polanco asked the Venezuelan leader to help win the release of ailing former presidential candidate Ingrid Betancourt, a dual French-Colombian citizen who is one of the most prominent captives.