India’s message on Venezuela: ‘Stability, safety and dialogue come first’

The External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar has expressed concern over the unfolding situation in Venezuela after the recent military operation by the United States. He called upon the parties involved in the conflict to address the issues through dialogue and reach a solution that ensures the well-being and safety of the people of the South American country.

Marking the first public statement after the US struck Venezuela, EAM said, “Yes, we are concerned about the developments in Venezuela. We would urge all parties to sit down and come to a position of well-being and safety of the people of Venezuela, because at the end of the day, that is our concern, and we would want Venezuela, the country with which we have had very good relations over many many years. So, we would like the people to come out well,” Jaishankar said.

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His statement came during his address on the sidelines of his meeting with Luxembourg’s Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister, Xavier Bettel, in Luxembourg on Tuesday (local time).

(Video source: EAM Social Media)

Earlier, the Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) had released a statement, stating that it was closely monitoring the developments in the country. “We are closely monitoring the evolving situation. India reaffirms its support for the well-being and safety of the people of Venezuela. We call upon all concerned to address issues peacefully through dialogue, ensuring peace and stability of the region,” the MEA said.

MEA further mentioned that the Indian Embassy in the Venezuelan capital Caracas is in constant touch with members of the Indian community. All possible assistance is being provided to them.

Last week, the ministry had also issued a travel advisory for Indian nationals in Venezuela in view of the recent developments there. It urged Indians to avoid all non-essential travel to Venezuela, exercise extreme caution, restrict their movements, and remain in contact with the Embassy of India in Caracas.

The US launched a strike on Venezuela and captured Maduro and his wife, Cilia Flores, who are currently in US custody at the Metropolitan Detention Centre in Brooklyn, New York. The couple pleaded not guilty on Monday to charges related to drugs and weapons.