BOGOTA, Jan 9 (Reuters) - Colombia's government on Wednesday approved a mission sponsored by Venezuela to free two hostages held by leftist rebels, said a spokesman for the International Committee of the Red Cross.

"We will participate in this humanitarian mission, which was announced by (Venezuelan President Hugo) Chavez and approved by the Colombian government," said Yves Heller, spokesman for the Red Cross in Colombia.

The mission is expected to take place on Thursday. (Reporting by Hugh Bronstein, Editing by Sandra Maler)

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