“He is an honest man,” Maduro says he is in solidarity with Petro

Within the framework of the event of Binational Tourism Exchange between Colombia and Venezuelaheld on Thursday, September 5, Nicolás Maduro reiterated his support for his Colombian counterpart, Gustavo PetroDuring his speech, Maduro praised Petro for his integrity and offered his solidarity amid the recent political tensions in Colombia.

Maduro referred to Petro as an “honest” person and expressed concern about the Colombian president’s allegations of coup plans against him.I know that President Petro is an honest man. He has denounced that plans against him have been discovered, and we have directly expressed our solidarity.“, Maduro said. The Venezuelan president added that he is confident that the Colombian people will know how to defend their democracy and peace.

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In a context of international controversy over Maduro’s recent re-election and accusations of fraud in the elections supposedly won by Edmundo González, the Chavista leader reiterated his unconditional support for Petro. “President Petro knows that he can count on Venezuela and our government to ensure that peace is achieved in Colombia sooner rather than later,” said Maduro.

Maduro also addressed the historical tensions between the two countries, stating that the “dominant classes and the Colombian oligarchy” have shown rejection towards Venezuela. However, he stressed that Petro, in his opinion, is not part of these sectors and, instead, has a deep affection for the neighboring country. “He is a man of the people. I know that as president he wants the best for Venezuela, he wants peace,” he added.

The Venezuelan president reiterated his willingness to support peace efforts in Colombia, highlighting his country’s collaboration in negotiations with the National Liberation Army (ELN). “We want the best for Colombia, we want peace and we will continue to help in everything. Sometimes I would like to help more,” said Maduro, pointing out his desire to speed up the negotiation and signing processes of the peace agreements.

Maduro also emphasized that Venezuela plays a fundamental role in the peace process, but stressed that its participation is discreet and respectful. In response to recent comments by Colombian Foreign Minister Luis Gilberto Murillo on the Venezuelan crisis, Maduro reiterated that his country is limited to facilitating the peace process without interfering in Colombia’s internal affairs. “We are official facilitators of the Colombian peace process, and we never let a journalist take a word from us,” said the Venezuelan president.

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Maduro’s reiteration of support for Petro reflects an attempt to strengthen bilateral relations and reaffirm Venezuela’s commitment to the peace process in Colombia, as the two nations seek to overcome decades of tension and conflict.