Is India Worried About the Situation in Venezuela?
Synopsis
Key Takeaways
- India is concerned about the Venezuelan crisis.
- EAM Jaishankar calls for dialogue among involved parties.
- Maduro remains in custody facing legal charges in the US.
- India emphasizes its commitment to the welfare of the Venezuelan people.
- The Indian Embassy is providing support to the Indian community in Venezuela.
Luxembourg, Jan 7 (NationPress) India's External Affairs Minister (EAM) S. Jaishankar expressed deep concern regarding the unfolding situation in Venezuela after the US apprehension of President Nicolas Maduro.
Currently, Maduro remains detained in a New York prison following his capture by US forces.
During an event in Luxembourg, EAM Jaishankar emphasized the importance of prioritizing the safety and well-being of the Venezuelan populace amidst the ongoing turmoil.
"We are troubled by the recent developments, and we strongly encourage all involved parties to come together and reach an agreement that serves the interests of the Venezuelan people," stated EAM Jaishankar.
He reaffirmed India's commitment to ensuring the welfare of the Venezuelan citizens, highlighting the long-standing positive relations between the two nations.
"Ultimately, our primary concern is for Venezuela, a country with which we have maintained excellent relations over many years, to navigate through these turbulent events successfully," he added.
The Venezuelan crisis escalated following a controversial US military operation on January 3, which resulted in the capture of President Maduro and his wife, Cilia Flores, by US special forces in Caracas. They were subsequently transported to the United States to face legal charges.
This operation, dubbed Operation Absolute Resolve, involved various military actions in Caracas, utilizing elite US forces.
Maduro and Flores were brought to New York, where they appeared in a Manhattan federal court, pleading not guilty to various allegations, including narco-terrorism and drug trafficking. Maduro was ordered to remain in custody until his next hearing on March 17.
In a court appearance, Maduro maintained his innocence, asserting he is "innocent, not guilty, and a decent man" while declaring that he is the legitimate President of Venezuela.
In the wake of Maduro's capture, Venezuela's Vice President, Delcy Rodriguez, was inaugurated as Interim President by the nation's supreme court.
On January 4, India labeled the recent events in Venezuela as "a matter of concern" and called for peaceful dialogue among all parties to ensure regional stability.
The Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) stated that the Indian Embassy in Caracas is actively engaged with the Indian community, offering all necessary support.
"The escalating situation in Venezuela is a source of significant concern. We are diligently monitoring developments. India reiterates its commitment to the welfare of the Venezuelan people and urges all parties to resolve issues through peaceful dialogue for regional peace and stability," it further stated.
"The Indian Embassy in Caracas is in touch with the Indian community and will continue to provide all possible assistance," it concluded.