Basseterre – 9 August 2019 – Ministry of Foreign Affairs, St Kitts and Nevis.

As the situation in Venezuela continues, St Kitts and Nevis in support of the CARICOM position and the Montevideo Mechanism, continues to reiterate the call for increased dialogue amongst all parties.  St Kitts and Nevis Permanent Representative to the Organization of American States (OAS), H.E. Dr. Everson Hull represented the Federation at the International Conference for Democracy in Venezuela held in Lima earlier this week. The Conference’s aim was “to reaffirm the commitment of those States present to foster an international environment that permits a peaceful solution to the Venezuelan crisis, led by the Venezuelan people, with the support of the international community”.

The St Kitts and Nevis representative used the opportunity to reiterate St Kitts and Nevis continued call for dialogue between contending parties.  He stated, “St. Kitts and Nevis, the smallest sovereign state in the Western Hemisphere has chosen the path of non-interference in the internal affairs of a member state.  We view our region as a zone of peace.  We are deeply concerned about the disastrous possible outcomes that will ensue when dialogue ends and war begins.”  Ambassador Hull reminded the meeting of the OAS guiding principles of “….strengthening the peace and security of the Western Hemisphere …and resolving conflicts between member states while respecting the principles of non-intervention in the internal affairs of a member state….”

In addressing the humanitarian crisis in Venezuela, Ambassador Hull highlighted the importance of proposals calling for increased funding to alleviate the suffering of vulnerable groups in Venezuela.  These echoed the sentiments of Hon. Mark Brantley, Minister of Foreign Affairs who has repeatedly expressed concern for the humanitarian situation in Venezuela. The recent United Nations report on the human rights situation in that neighbouring country has also been cause for concern. Foreign Minister Brantley has been clear that a restoration of peace and stability in Venezuela must be an evident and urgent imperative for the OAS and the regional and international community.

During its CARICOM chairmanship from 1st January 2019 to 30th June 2019, St Kitts and Nevis through its Prime Minister the Honourable Dr Timothy Harris was instrumental in leading diplomatic efforts to find peaceful solutions to the Venezuelan matter.  Even though its chairmanship has expired, St Kitts and Nevis remains engaged in diplomacy to advance dialogue, a fundamental tool in reconciling differences.

St Kitts and Nevis continues to advocate for a restoration of peace and stability in Venezuela for the benefit of the Venezuelan people and again calls for all sides to remain at the negotiation table to find a lasting and sustainable resolution to this ongoing crisis.