The 34 members of the Organization of American States, after 10 hours of discussion agreed on a statement and recommendation on the situation of Venezuela which emphasizes dialogue in search of a solution to the problems in Venezuela. This is in contrast with the interventionist approach taken by its Secretary General Luis Almagro. The decision was reached on June 1st., a day after Almagro’s move to call on the so-called OAS Democratic Charter which could mean the expulsion of Venezuela from the organization. Following is the official agreement.

DECLARATION OF THE PERMANENTE COUNCIL ABOUT THE SITUATION IN THE BOLIVARIAN REPUBLIC OF VENEZUELA
(Adopted by the Permanent Council at its special meeting held on June 1, 2016)

THE PERMANENT COUNCIL OF THE ORGANIZATION OF AMERICAN STATES,

CONSIDERING:

That the Charter of the Organization recognizes that representative democracy is essential for stability, peace and development in the region, and that one of its main purposes is to promote and strengthen democracy in accordance with the respect for the non intervention principle in the domestic affairs of the States; and that every State has the right to choose, without external interference, its political, economic, and social system and to organize itself in the way best suited to it.

DECLARES:

1. Its fraternal offer to the sister Bolivarian Republic of Venezuela in order to identify, by common accord, a course of action that will assist the search for solutions to the situation through open and inclusive dialogue among the government, other constitutional authorities and all political and social players of that nation to preserve peace and security in Venezuela, with full respect for its sovereignty.

2. Support the initiative of the former Presidents José Luis Rodríguez Zapatero of Spain, Leonel Fernández of Dominican Republic and Martin Torrijos of Panamá for reopening of an effective dialogue between the Government and the Opposition, in order to find alternatives to promote political stability, social development and economic recovery of the Bolivarian Republic of Venezuela,

3. Support for the various national dialogue initiatives that may lead to, in accordance with the constitution and full respect for human rights, the timely and effective resolution of differences and the consolidation of representative democracy.

4. Support for all efforts of understanding, dialogue and the constitutional procedures.