We, the Governments of Argentina, Brazil, Canada, Chile, Colombia, Costa Rica, Guatemala, Honduras, Mexico, Panama, Paraguay, Peru, the United States, and Uruguay, deeply concerned about the situation of our fraternal country, the Bolivarian Republic of Venezuela, reaffirm our commitment to the promotion and defence of democracy and human rights within the framework of the Charter of the Organization of American States and the Inter-American Democratic Charter.
We have received the report of the OAS Secretary General on Venezuela, which we will evaluate in depth with a view to establishing the relevant course of action within the Organization. Notwithstanding the foregoing, we believe that the suspension of a Member State, as established under the Inter-American Democratic Charter, should be used as a last resort and that, before that decision is taken, all diplomatic efforts should be exhausted within a reasonable period of time.
We restate that dialogue and negotiation are the ideal avenue to reach lasting solutions to the problems faced by the Venezuelan people.
In this regard, we call for full compliance with the agreements reached in the context of the negotiation tables established as part of the follow-up process initiated by the former presidents and the Vatican, and for the prompt identification of concrete solutions in accordance with the provisions of the Constitution of the Bolivarian Republic of Venezuela, in order to guarantee the effective separation of powers, and respect for the rule of law and democratic institutions.
We believe that it is a priority to release political prisoners, acknowledge the legitimacy of the decisions of the National Assembly, in accordance with the Constitution, and set an election calendar including the proposed elections.
Lastly, we, the governments signatories to this statement, reaffirm our intent to collaborate with the people and government of Venezuela in every aspect that may contribute to finding a solution to Venezuela’s political, economic, and social challenges, and we will be watchful of the efforts to address these challenges in the upcoming weeks, so as to consider the next steps required.
Press Release: Nº093/17
Press Office: 4819-7375 / 8296 / 7388
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