BY Tony Christian
The United States and Venezuela have resumed diplomatic and consular relations after the ousting of former President Nicholas Maduro, who broke ties with the US.
President Donald Trump had in January authorized the capturing of Maduro and his wife, who were later arraigned in a Manhattan court on allegations of weapon and drug offences, which they deny.
According to Venezuela’s agency statement, the two countries have agreed to pursue joint efforts to promote stability, support economic recovery and advance political reconciliation.
The US embassy in Caracas, which closed in 2019, has already reopened, and Washington has appointed a new diplomat in Venezuela.
The Venezuelan government said on Thursday it was willing to advance a “new stage of constructive dialogue, based on mutual respect”.
It said the relationship must result in the “social and economic happiness of the Venezuelan people”.
Daily Intel Newspaper gathered that more diplomatic staff from the US embassy in Bogotá, Colombia, are expected to be transferred to Caracas soon. The move will make it much easier for officials to negotiate face-to-face and provide consular services.
On Wednesday, Venezuela’s interim president Delcy Rodríguez and Burgum said the two countries would work together to develop mining in the country.
Along with having the largest proven oil reserves in the world, Venezuela is rich in gold, diamonds, critical minerals and rare earth minerals – including some of those used in mobile phones.
