There Can Be No Imposed Solution in Venezuela, Says Secretary-General, Stressing Political Agreement, Elections, Respect for Human Rights as Only Way Forward

The following statement by UN Secretary-General António Guterres was issued today:

Our concern regarding Venezuela is more present than ever.  The international community and myself wish for peace and democracy for Venezuela.

A national dialogue is urgently needed in Venezuela between the Government and the opposition to achieve two major objectives:  the eradication of violence, abuses and fanaticism; and the preservation of an agreed constitutional path.

There will not be a solution if it is imposed.  The way out is through an agreement, elections and respect for fundamental rights and constitutional powers.  The way out must be found by Venezuelans alone, and the international community must support peaceful outcomes based on political dialogue.  Only a political solution can restore hope to Venezuela.