The inauguration of a new parliament in Venezuela
Historical archive
Published under: Solberg's Government
Publisher: Ministry of Foreign Affairs
News story | Date: 06/01/2021
On 5 January 2021, a new national assembly was sworn into office in Venezuela. The inauguration was controversial because a major part of the opposition boycotted the parliamentary elections on 6 December 2020, in reference to them not fulfilling democratic standards.
'Free and fair elections are a precondition for ensuring a functioning democracy and lasting peace. I am deeply concerned by the political, economic and humanitarian situation in Venezuela. I repeat our call to the political actors in the country to do their utmost to find a political and inclusive solution to the conflict', says Foreign Minister Ine Eriksen Søreide.
See also: Norwegian statement from 7 December.
The inauguration of a new National Assembly does not alter Norway’s relations to Venezuela. In accordance with established policy, Norwegian authorities relate to the government that rules Venezuela. We have previously expressed our support for the democratically elected National Assembly and its leader Juan Guaidó, and we will continue relating to the opposition as a composite group. Norway expects the fundamental rights of all the country’s politicians to be respected.
'The most important issue now is for the country’s political leaders to put the interests of the population first and find a peaceful solution to the crisis that safeguards fundamental human rights, democratic participation and the rule of law', says the Foreign Minister.