Ban urges all parties in Venezuela to reduce polarization and engage sincerely in dialogue process
| Publisher | UN News Service |
| Publication Date | 28 October 2016 |
| Cite as | UN News Service, Ban urges all parties in Venezuela to reduce polarization and engage sincerely in dialogue process, 28 October 2016, available at: https://www.refworld.org/docid/5823593a40e.html [accessed 19 May 2023] |
| Disclaimer | This is not a UNHCR publication. UNHCR is not responsible for, nor does it necessarily endorse, its content. Any views expressed are solely those of the author or publisher and do not necessarily reflect those of UNHCR, the United Nations or its Member States. |
28 October 2016 - United Nations Secretary-General Ban Ki-moon today welcomed the Vatican's joining of the ongoing initiative by former Heads of State and Government to promote dialogue between the Government of Venezuela and the country's political opposition, under the auspices of the Union of South American Nations (UNASUR).
According to a statement issued by his spokesperson, Mr. Ban also called on all national actors to take tangible measures to reduce polarization and to engage sincerely in the dialogue process.
Underscoring the importance of adhering to the rule of law and the Constitution and ensuring respect for human rights, including freedom of expression and the right to peaceful assembly, the UN chief further called on all Venezuelans, regardless of their political perspective, to exercise those rights responsibly.
"Above all," noted the statement, "the Secretary-General reiterates his strong conviction that the Government and the opposition should make concerted efforts to focus on the country's current challenges, including to effectively address the socio-economic needs of the country, for the benefit of the Venezuelan people."
In the statement, the Secretary-General also welcomed the expressions of support for the UNASUR initiative from the international community.
