As reconciliation efforts over Venezuela’s political future continue, U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio announced Washington’s full support for the country’s democratic transition. Rubio made the remarks on Friday after meeting with Dinorah Figuera, president of the 2015 National Assembly, in Washington.
“She has our 100% support,” Rubio said of Figuera, adding that he supported initiatives aimed at guaranteeing political freedoms, pursuing electoral reform and establishing lasting democratic institutions. Saying that Venezuela was recovering from nearly a quarter-century of trauma, Rubio described the current period as the country’s best opportunity in roughly a generation to build a lasting democracy.
Political steps taken in earlier rounds
The U.S. Department of State said the meeting reviewed progress made during the first two rounds of the reconciliation process between the interim government and representatives of the 2015 National Assembly.
During these rounds, more than 1,200 political prisoners were released, access was restored to more than 70 previously blocked internet domains, and steps were taken to establish an independent Supreme Court of Justice.
Venezuelan authorities also began work on reforms to the 2017 Law against Hate, which had previously been used to punish people critical of the government.
Third round to begin on October 14
The third round of reconciliation talks is scheduled to begin on October 14. The talks are expected to address judicial appointments and guarantees for political participation ahead of credible elections.
Rubio said all segments of society needed to participate in the process and exercise patience to achieve a peaceful transition. The U.S. secretary of state also stressed the importance of establishing institutions that would guarantee stability, prosperity and freedom.
Rubio said free and fair elections alone would not be sufficient, adding that institutions capable of sustaining democracy for generations to come were needed.
