Speeches and other documents by the Secretary General

STATEMENT OF SECRETARY GENERAL ALMAGRO ON THE DECLARATION OF THE PERMANENT COUNCIL SUPPORTING THE DIALOGUE IN VENEZUELA

November 16, 2016 - Washington D.C.

As the Secretary General of the Organization of American States (OAS), I would like to convey my gratitude to the delegations for the negotiating efforts that have concluded with the adoption of the “Declaration of the Permanent Council Supporting the National Dialogue in the Bolivarian Republic of Venezuela.”

As a man of laws and of principles I believe that the path of negotiation and dialogue constitutes the main tool for reaching solutions to the problems of the region.

In this framework, and as I have expressed repeatedly, we hope that the mediation of the Vatican in Venezuela restores the separation of powers, the electoral rights of the people and respect for the Constitution.

I reiterate that the prompt liberation of all political prisoners is imperative, as is the expediting of electoral processes, putting the right of the people to vote and the implementation of a humanitarian channel first.

Trusting that the efforts of the Permanent Council will be fruitful in this sense, I reiterate to the Chair the assurances of my highest consideration.