De la Espriella clarifies remarks on Venezuela; denies intent to disregard country's sovereignty

Colombian President-elect Abelardo de la Espriella clarified his recent remarks concerning Venezuela's post-earthquake reconstruction, stating he never intended to disregard the South American nation's sovereignty.

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At no time was it proposed to disregard Venezuela's sovereignty nor to substitute the responsibilities that correspond to its authorities.

Following declarations from the Venezuelan government that reconstruction is an "exclusive" competence of its authorities, De la Espriella's office issued a statement Saturday. "At no time was it proposed to disregard Venezuela's sovereignty nor to substitute the responsibilities that correspond to its authorities," the statement read. The president-elect, who assumes office on August 7, added that the reconstruction effort is a "challenge of enormous proportions" that could benefit from international solidarity and technical expertise.

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The reconstruction of the affected areas is a challenge of enormous proportions that can benefit from international solidarity, technical experience from neighboring countries, and the participation of its productive sectors, always within the appropriate cooperation mechanisms and with full respect for international law.

De la Espriella's initial comments suggested that Colombia should lead the reconstruction efforts. The Venezuelan Foreign Ministry reacted with "surprise," emphasizing that the planning and rebuilding process falls solely under its purview and that it has already mobilized its public companies, national industries, and private sector. The ministry reiterated its commitment to addressing the needs of those affected by the earthquakes that struck on June 24.

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is an exclusive competence of its authorities

De la Espriella's office explained that his affirmations were made from an "exclusively humanitarian and regional cooperation perspective." He believes that in the face of such tragedies, neighboring countries should be ready to combine capabilities to alleviate suffering. Colombia possesses technical, logistical, and human resources that could significantly contribute to debris removal, infrastructure recovery, and reconstruction, provided institutional channels and a willingness to cooperate are established between both nations.

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The incoming Government of the Republic of Colombia took note of the statement issued by the Government of the Bolivarian Republic of Venezuela on the occasion of the statements by President-elect, Abelardo de La Espriella.