Colombia seeks dialogue with Venezuela following OAS resolution on elections.

The Colombian government has expressed its position regarding the recent resolution of the Organization of American States (OAS) on the political situation in Venezuela, stating that its abstention from the resolution reflects its desire to maintain an open channel of dialogue with Nicolás Maduro's regime. Sources from the Colombian Foreign Ministry indicated that any statement from the OAS is, in practice, a "salute to the flag," given that Venezuela has not been a part of the organization since its official exit in 2019. This decision is set against a complicated backdrop, where the OAS has faced difficulties in maintaining a neutral stance on the internal affairs of the neighboring country. The resolution in question urged Venezuela's National Electoral Council (CNE) to publish the results of the elections held last weekend, in which it is claimed that Maduro obtained a third mandate. This result has been rejected not only by the Venezuelan opposition, which believes that its candidate, Edmundo González Urrutia, won clearly, but also by various sectors of the international community that view the legitimacy of the elections with skepticism. The OAS also called for a comprehensive verification of the results by independent organizations, seeking to ensure the transparency and credibility of the electoral process. Despite the controversy surrounding the elections, Colombian President Gustavo Petro has reiterated his proposal to review the founding charter of the OAS to reintegrate Venezuela as a full member. This initiative aims, according to Petro, to create a space where the Venezuelan crisis can be addressed more effectively. Colombia's stance focuses on the importance of dialogue and the pursuit of agreements that promote peace and coexistence in the Caribbean country. The situation has become more complex following the protests against the electoral results in Venezuela, where demonstrations have resonated strongly, especially in popular neighborhoods that have traditionally supported chavismo. In an attempt to maintain calm and support, Maduro assured that he had explained "many things" about the electoral process to Petro, a move that seeks not only to legitimize himself internally but also to gain the support of foreign governments. Petro, for his part, has called on the Venezuelan executive for a "transparent" scrutiny of the results, emphasizing that any outcome must be accepted, regardless of its nature. This position resonates with the cries of many Venezuelans who are tired of the polarization and violence that usually accompany electoral disputes in their country. The Colombian Foreign Ministry emphasizes that the government's approach remains within the diplomatic principles of confidentiality, respect, and non-interference in Venezuela's internal affairs. This course of action seeks to create the necessary conditions for constructive dialogue among all political and social sectors of the neighboring country, trying to avoid further polarization that could lead to an even deeper crisis. Colombia has been in contact with other countries in the region, such as Brazil and Mexico, to coordinate efforts in seeking an agreement that facilitates peaceful coexistence in Venezuela. These dialogues are crucial in a context where the international community is closely watching the political crisis unfolding in the country, with particular interest in preventing the outbreak of a conflict that could have repercussions throughout the region. The role of the OAS in this scenario has been questioned, and the lack of consensus surrounding the presented resolution reflects the divisions that exist not only within the organization but also in the international community as a whole. The situation in Venezuela will continue to be a focal point of attention, not only due to political instability but also because of the humanitarian implications affecting millions of Venezuelans. Meanwhile, the future of relations between Colombia and Venezuela will remain in delicate balance, where dialogue and understanding will be key to overcoming differences. The international community, as well as the leaders of both countries, must act responsibly to address a crisis that has been simmering for years and demands effective and sustainable solutions.