Feb 9 • 04:30 UTC 🇪🇸 Spain El País

The 40 Hours of Zapatero in Venezuela

Former Spanish President José Luis Rodríguez Zapatero emphasizes the democratic opportunity in Venezuela during his recent official visit, contrasting it with his previous unsuccessful mediating efforts.

José Luis Rodríguez Zapatero, the former Prime Minister of Spain, returned to Venezuela for an official visit after a frustrating experience five months earlier where he aimed to negotiate the release of political prisoners under Nicolás Maduro's regime but came back empty-handed. This time, he aimed to engage in dialogues aimed at addressing the years of political turmoil and repression that Venezuela has experienced. Zapatero has expressed optimism about the current political situation, asserting that it represents a unique democratic opportunity for both the government and various segments of Venezuelan society.

During his recent trip, Zapatero highlighted the importance of dialogue and collaboration in ushering in a peaceful resolution to Venezuela's ongoing crises. He defended the involvement of Delcy Rodríguez, suggesting that her role is significant in the efforts to begin a new chapter for the country. The former president's conviction that regular communication with government leaders can spark positive change indicates a shift in strategy from his prior, more isolated negotiations that yielded little success.

This latest visit aligns with growing international interest in the political situation in Venezuela, especially as the country navigates its economic challenges and political isolation. Zapatero's renewed efforts and recent dialogue initiatives may hold implications for both domestic stakeholders and international observers, revealing the critical balance needed to foster stability and progress in a country long plagued by conflict and authoritarian rule.

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