Mulino calls from OAS for strengthening democracy and regional cooperation
Translated from Spanish, summarized and contextualized by DistantNews.
At a glance
- Panamanian President José Raúl Mulino urged the Organization of American States (OAS) to strengthen democracy and regional cooperation.
- He highlighted the fight against transnational organized crime and called for coordinated responses to hemispheric challenges.
- Mulino also addressed the political situations in Venezuela, Nicaragua, and Bolivia, advocating for democratic transitions and stability.
At the opening of the 56th General Assembly of the Organization of American States (OAS) in Panama, President José Raúl Mulino issued a strong call to defend democracy, foster regional cooperation, and unite against transnational organized crime.
Mulino's address drew historical parallels to Simón Bolívar's Amphictyonic Congress of 1826, emphasizing that today's challenges necessitate coordinated action across the hemisphere. "International cooperation is not an option, it is a strategic necessity," he stated.
The president voiced concerns regarding human rights in Nicaragua and expressed hope for Cuba's transition to full democracy. He reiterated his support for a democratic transition in Venezuela, urging for free and internationally supervised elections. "I have not forgotten Venezuela," Mulino declared.
Bolivia's political crisis was another central theme. Mulino announced support for a proposal to form a commission of foreign ministers, defense ministers, or security ministers to visit Bolivia. The commission's aim would be to support the democratic government and contribute to institutional stability.
Mulino also warned about the significant risks posed by drug trafficking and organized crime to regional democracies. He noted how these phenomena erode institutions, corrupt state structures, and undermine public trust. In response, Panama will promote a regional meeting of foreign, security, and defense ministers to enhance hemispheric coordination against these threats.
Furthermore, Mulino underscored the importance of balancing economic development with environmental protection and acknowledged the challenges artificial intelligence presents to modern democracies. He concluded by calling for regional reconciliation and strengthened dialogue among American nations, stating, "Nations are always stronger when they cooperate than when they isolate themselves."
No se me ha olvidado Venezuela
Originally published by TVN Panamá in Spanish. Translated, summarized, and contextualized by our editorial team with added local perspective. Read our editorial standards.