Yesterday, 162 Venezuelans returned home through a government repatriation program. This program has already helped over 340,000 Venezuelans to come back.
Deputy Foreign Minister Rander Peña made the announcement.
He spoke at Simón Bolívar Airport near Caracas. “We welcomed 162 Venezuelans from Peru at the airport today,” Peña said.
He said they made “the best choice.” The program aims to protect them, he added. Peña also said many returnees faced discrimination and false information.
The program started five years ago. It helps Venezuelans who are in tough situations abroad.
The program is called “Repatriation Program.” It has been around for five years. Its main goal is to help Venezuelans abroad who are struggling.
Venezuela has seen a lot of migration in recent years. Many people left for economic or political reasons. Some faced difficulties in other countries.
Deputy Foreign Minister Peña focuses on Latin American relations. He is part of the team that runs this program.
This program operates from Simón Bolívar Airport. This airport is a main hub near Caracas. It’s named after a Venezuelan hero.
Many returnees come from Peru. They fly back with the state airline, Conviasa.
Discrimination against Venezuelans has been reported. The program aims to offer them a safer homecoming.
Some see this program as controversial. Critics question its effectiveness and motives. But many others value its protective aim.
Government officials say the program is a success. They point to the high number of returnees as proof.
Rander Peña said that protection is the program’s priority. The government aims to keep this program going.
Understanding the program’s context helps. It’s a response to the complex issue of migration. Safety and protection are its main goals.