The United Kingdom government announced this Tuesday (15) the decision to raise the level of its diplomatic relations with Venezuela. The measure provides for the appointment of ambassadors and seeks to consolidate bilateral cooperation.
The resumption of relations with the current government could pave the way for the recovery of 31 tons of Venezuelan gold held in the Bank of England’s coffers since 2018, when the British government recognized the one led by former deputy and self-proclaimed president, Juan Guaidó, as the legitimate government.
The announcement was made official by the charge d’affaires in Caracas, Colin Dick, based on a statement presented to parliament by the minister for Latin America, Chris Elmore. The British representation stated that the decision seeks to support Venezuelan economic recovery and assist in national reconstruction tasks after the earthquakes that hit the country.
“The United Kingdom remains committed to supporting Venezuela in the long term. As part of this commitment, we announce today that we will raise the level of our diplomatic relations with Venezuela”, published the diplomat on his account on the social network X. In the message, the British official talks about “moving towards a democratic transition” in the country.
On social media, the acting president, Delcy Rodríguez, thanked the efforts of the president of the National Assembly, Jorge Rodríguez (PSUV), in reestablishing diplomatic relations.
“I thank Dr. Jorge Rodríguez, president of the National Assembly, for adding efforts and efforts towards the resumption of diplomatic relations between Venezuela and the United Kingdom, during his recent visit to that country”, published the head of state, with a video of her brother.
In it, Jorge Rodríguez claims to have met with the director for the Americas of the Foreign Office (equivalent to the United Kingdom’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs), Anet Thomson, to whom he presented the Venezuelan government’s position on dialogues with sectors of the opposition.
“We talk about the advances that have occurred in recent days in terms of oil and gas investment, and how this will result in important economic growth for Venezuela very quickly, complying, of course, with the processes that are being carried out,” said Rodríguez in the video.
In turn, Venezuelan diplomacy released a statement expressing its willingness to deepen a constructive and respectful dialogue.
“This new stage will be marked by a constructive dialogue, based on mutual respect and oriented towards the sovereign management of the resources of the Venezuelan people, with the aim of contributing to the recovery efforts and the integral development of the country”, says the text published by Venezuelan Foreign Minister Félix Plasencia.
“Venezuela reaffirms its full willingness to revitalize the historic ties of friendship with the people and government of the United Kingdom, as well as to strengthen cooperation in areas of common interest, based on the principles of national sovereignty, reciprocity and respect for international law”, completes the statement.
Source: www.brasildefato.com.br
