The European Union (EU) on Friday welcomed the meeting on Thursday between President Irfaan Ali and President Nicolas Maduro of Venezuela in Saint Vincent and the Grenadines.
In a statement, the EU expressed its appreciation for the mediation efforts led by the region, including active contributions from the CELAC pro tempore Presidency, CARICOM and Brazil.
The EU congratulated the Presidents for their willingness to engage in a dialogue “despite the complexity of this issue”.
The EU underline the importance of a peaceful and diplomatic solution in accordance with international law and the multilateral framework. It said that any escalation can put the stability of the region at risk and has to be avoided.
Earlier last week, Josep Borrell, Vice-President of the Commission/High Representative of the Union for Foreign Affairs and Security Policy had expressed concern over the escalation of tension following the December 3rd referendum in Venezuela on Guyana’s Essequibo.
Borrell said: “This escalation could endanger stability in the region. I will like to underline the significance of a diplomatic, peaceful solution in line with international law and the multilateral system. I commend the efforts made by the leadership in the region. It seems above all unilateral actions should be avoided”.
