Paraguay and Venezuela Begin Process to Restore Bilateral Relations

Paraguayan President Santiago Peña travelled to Caracas for talks with Venezuelan Acting President Delcy Rodríguez, in a move aimed at restoring bilateral relations between the two South American countries. Xinhua, in a report carried by NAMPA, said the visit was intended to restore institutional contacts and gradually normalize relations, with discussions expected to cover trade, consular affairs and outstanding energy and financial issues. The visit marked the first high-level contact between the two governments in roughly 20 months.

Following the meeting, Venezuela and Paraguay signed a joint communiqué outlining a process for renewed engagement. The Venezuelan Ministry of Foreign Affairs said the meeting marked the beginning of a “new stage” in relations and established a framework based on dialogue, sovereign equality, self-determination and respect for international law. The two governments also expressed an interest in expanding economic cooperation, complementary trade and technical, productive and social cooperation, while seeking opportunities for greater interaction between their productive and commercial sectors.

The rapprochement also has an important economic dimension, particularly concerning energy and trade. Xinhua reported that the two sides were expected to address outstanding financial and energy matters, while the Venezuelan Foreign Ministry said both governments intend to create greater opportunities for economic development and commercial cooperation. The visit therefore represents an effort by Paraguay and Venezuela to reopen diplomatic channels and explore practical areas of cooperation after a prolonged period of strained relations.