Lula is on Maduro’s side
Representatives of the Venezuelan government and the opposition are expected to announce, this Tuesday (17), an agreement that will lay the foundation for the 2024 presidential elections. The negotiations were mediated by Norway in Barbados and their primary goal was to create for a transparent and democratic electoral environment in the South American country.
The announcement of this agreement represents an important moment for Venezuela, which has faced years of political instability and tensions. The main points of the agreement include the presence of international observers, with a focus on the European Union, which will play a decisive role in ensuring the integrity of the electoral process.
Moreover, the agreement aims to guarantee full freedom of the press, and to recognize the importance of independent media in the exercise of democracy. Another key point of the agreement is the commitment to allow all candidates to participate in elections without hindrance, which contributes to democratic representation.
Another relevant aspect of the agreement is the lifting of US sanctions affecting the Venezuelan oil sector. This could represent an important economic relief for the country facing a long-term economic crisis.
The role played by former Brazilian Minister Celso Amorim was essential in the negotiations, as he helped mediate and facilitate dialogue between the parties. Amorim actively participated in negotiations in Caracas and Bogotá and in meetings with representatives from the United States and Norway.
He added: “We see that setting a road map between now and the elections is a very important step. This should include ensuring the presence of international observers during the electoral process, and freedom of the press, among other measures, Amorim explained to Portal G1.
“On the other hand – this should not be in today’s agreement, but the United States has addressed it – the lifting of sanctions is also fundamental to social peace in Venezuela and the entire region. “So, we see this whole process, which we have followed – and to which President Lula’s positions have certainly contributed in a very positive way,” he added.
The conversation between Brazilian President Luiz Inacio Lula da Silva and Venezuelan President Nicolas Maduro also contributed to the negotiation process. The two leaders expressed their optimism about the agreement.
