Statement by Minister Dion on legislative elections in Venezuela

News Release

December 7, 2015 - Ottawa, Ontario - Global Affairs Canada

The Honourable Stéphane Dion, Minister of Foreign Affairs, today issued the following statement on the parliamentary elections that took place in Venezuela on December 6, 2015:

“Canada congratulates Venezuelans for exercising their democratic right to vote in a peaceful environment. We encourage all parties to engage in productive and meaningful dialogue to ensure that all branches of government work together in the best interests of the country’s citizens. We look forward to continuing to work with the Government of Venezuela to consolidate and strengthen our diplomatic relationship.

“With full respect for Venezuela’s sovereignty, Canada looks forward to working with the Government of Venezuela to uphold the principles of respect for human rights and democratic governance enshrined in the charters of the UN and Organization of American States, as well as in the Inter-American Democratic Charter.

“In every society, a government’s first responsibility is to ensure the well-being of its citizens. Canada believes that with mutual respect and compromise among Venezuela’s political leaders, peace can be maintained, allowing the country’s social and economic challenges to be properly addressed.”

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