Venezuela plans on holding discussions with US
(MENAFN) President Nicolas Maduro of Venezuela has announced his decision to restart negotiations with the United States, marking a significant diplomatic development amidst ongoing economic sanctions imposed on Venezuela's critical energy sector earlier this year. The announcement comes just weeks before Venezuela is set to hold presidential elections, with Maduro seeking a third consecutive term in office.
In a televised address on Monday, Maduro disclosed that Washington had initiated contact with Caracas, proposing to revive discussions between the two nations. "After careful consideration over the past two months, I have accepted, and next Wednesday, talks will resume with the United States government to uphold the agreements signed in Qatar and to reinstate the terms of urgent dialogue," Maduro stated, as reported by the Associated Press.
Maduro revealed that Jorge Rodriguez, Venezuela's official negotiator, will represent the country in these upcoming talks, although specific agenda items and the location of the dialogue were not disclosed.
The reference to the Qatar-brokered accord harks back to a milestone agreement reached in September 2023, facilitated through extensive negotiations between Venezuela and the United States. This accord notably secured a prisoner exchange between the two nations, demonstrating a rare moment of diplomatic breakthrough amid longstanding tensions.
Previously, the United States had temporarily lifted some energy-related sanctions on Venezuela following a commitment made in Barbados in October, where Maduro's government and the opposition agreed to facilitate a transparent and impartial presidential election in 2024 under international scrutiny. However, these sanctions were re-imposed in April, with Washington accusing Maduro of failing to adhere to democratic standards outlined in the Qatar agreement.
Maduro's administration, in response, criticized the United States for allegedly violating the terms of the Qatar accord. The resumption of talks now signals a renewed effort by both nations to navigate complex diplomatic challenges amidst domestic and international pressures, including Venezuela's upcoming electoral process and the ongoing economic constraints imposed by United States sanctions.
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