Brazil and Colombia Push for Democratic Process in Venezuela

On Wednesday, April 17, 2024, Brazil and Colombia stood united in their support for a peaceful resolution in Venezuela.

They advocated for a negotiated agreement between President Nicolás Maduro and the Venezuelan opposition.

Colombian President Gustavo Petro proposed that this agreement be ratified through a plebiscite before the next presidential elections.

Brazilian President Luiz Inácio Lula da Silva and Gustavo Petro urged Venezuela’s government and opposition to reach an agreement preserving democratic integrity.

They emphasized that such a deal should be confirmed through a public vote.

They stressed their collective disapproval of any sanctions, which they believe only deepen the hardships faced by Venezuelan citizens.

Though ideologically aligned with Maduro, Lula and Petro openly criticized the Venezuelan leader.

They condemned his exclusion of political opponent Corina Yoris from the electoral process.

They expressed a firm opposition to any punitive measures that might further deteriorate the living conditions in Venezuela.

The joint declaration also emphasized their support for continued diplomatic talks between Venezuela and Guyana.

These discussions aim to settle the protracted dispute over the Esequibo region, a conflict that has extended for more than a century.

Brazil and Colombia Push for Democratic Process in Venezuela

In recent developments, December saw Venezuelan citizens voting in a referendum concerning the annexation of part of Guyana’s territory.

Subsequently, on April 4, Maduro formalized a decree that established Venezuelan jurisdiction over an area globally recognized as belonging to Guyana.

This diplomatic engagement occurred during President Lula’s visit to Colombia.

He participated in discussions, finalized agreements, and spoke at a Business Forum and the Bogotá Book Fair (Filbo).

This trip reinforced the bilateral ties initiated at Lula’s inauguration, highlighting both nations’ commitment to dialogue and peaceful regional solutions.