U.S. Welcomes Start of Venezuelan Political Dialogue, Offers Support
Translated from Spanish, summarized and contextualized by DistantNews.
At a glance
- The United States welcomes the start of political dialogue between Venezuela's government and a faction of the opposition.
- U.S. Deputy Secretary of State Dylan Johnson expressed support for a democratic solution and strengthening Venezuelan institutions.
- The dialogue, which includes opposition leader Dinorah Figuera, will initially focus on aid for earthquake victims and democratic reforms.
The United States has welcomed the commencement of political dialogue between representatives of Venezuela's government and a segment of the opposition, led by Dinorah Figuera, president of the 2015-elected National Assembly. U.S. Deputy Secretary of State for Global Public Affairs, Dylan Johnson, stated on social media that Washington is pleased with the announcement and reiterated its commitment to supporting a democratic path for Venezuela.
"The United States welcomes this announcement and remains committed to supporting Venezuelan-led efforts to strengthen democratic institutions, expand political freedoms, and advance a stable and more prosperous future for the people of Venezuela," Johnson wrote. The U.S. official's statement came hours after Jorge Rodrรญguez, the government's dialogue coordinator, and Figuera confirmed the initiation of negotiations, with a first in-person meeting scheduled in Caracas for the following week.
The United States welcomes this announcement and remains committed to supporting Venezuelan-led efforts to strengthen democratic institutions, expand political freedoms, and advance a stable and more prosperous future for the people of Venezuela.
Figuera expressed gratitude for the U.S. backing, noting that Washington's involvement aids efforts toward a democratic transition. According to the opposition leader, the initial meeting will address the needs of victims from the June 24 earthquake, alongside strengthening democracy and political rights. This new dialogue process follows previous negotiation attempts between the ruling party and opposition groups.
The accompaniment of Washington is part of the efforts to advance towards a democratic transition in the country.
Originally published by El Nacional in Spanish. Translated, summarized, and contextualized by our editorial team with added local perspective. Read our editorial standards.