By the A.M. Costa Rica staff

The Foreign Minister of Costa Rica, Manuel E. Ventura-Robles, participated in the meeting of Ministers of Foreign Affairs that make up the Lima Group that took place in New York on Monday.

According to the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, the government's position in the use of peaceful and democratic means to solve the crisis in Venezuela was reiterated.

"We believe in frank negotiations, as well as in peaceful and democratic means for the solution to the crisis," said Chancellor Ventura during the meeting of ministers.

At a meeting of the Lima Group, the Minister spoke about the need for the international community to continue supporting Venezuela and articulating efforts focused on the generation of conditions that allow Venezuelan actors to make real and credible agreements, which lead to presidential elections.

The government also supports the National Assembly of Venezuela, "the only democratically elected organization in Venezuela," as well as President Juan Guaidó, said the Ministry in its statement.

According to Minister Ventura, Venezuela urgently needs to be able to begin its economic recovery, and above all to halt the progress of the terrible humanitarian crisis that its people are experiencing, as well as the immediate cessation of human rights violations.

The Lima Group of Latin American countries expressed their willingness to implement sanctions on Venezuela to force out President Nicolas Maduro without resorting to the use of force, according to a joint statement.

On January 11th, 2019, Guaidó announced that he would assume the responsibilities to call new national elections.

Approximately 50 countries have expressed recognition of Guaidó as president in charge of the republic, while about half a dozen have expressed their support for the National Assembly as the only legitimate power in Venezuela. He is considered the leader of the Venezuelan opposition.

The crisis in Venezuela began under the leadership of Nicolas Maduro. There has been a shortage of basic products and medicines, the increase in unemployment due to the closure of private companies and the massive migration of people to other countries in the region.

UN Human Rights Council urges sending a team of investigators on human rights violations to Venezuela.




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How could the Venezuelans depose dictator Nicolas Maduro, without having the support of the army?  We would like to know your thoughts on this story. Send your comments to news@amcostarica.com

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