US backing key to Venezuela talks, says political leader

Juan Pablo Guanipa, a political leader from Venezuela, asserted that the direct involvement of the United States is the crucial factor differentiating the current negotiation process from past dialogue efforts. He stated that this U.S. backing ensures the talks will lead to a political transition in Venezuela.

Following the establishment of a dialogue table between representatives of the 2015 National Assembly and a government delegation, Guanipa highlighted the U.S. role in a social media post. He referenced statements by U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio and the State Department, emphasizing that the negotiations must culminate in a political transition.

Guanipa, associated with the Primero Justicia party, outlined key objectives for the country's democratic recovery. These include the reinstitutionalization of the National Electoral Council (CNE) and the Supreme Court of Justice (TSJ). Additionally, he stressed the importance of releasing all political prisoners and establishing a clear electoral calendar.

He specifically mentioned that these steps are essential for advancing towards presidential elections where Venezuelans can vote for María Corina Machado. Guanipa concluded by noting that the Venezuelan population is cautiously observing the dialogue's progress, anticipating concrete results for the nation's democratic future.