India In Touch With Citizens In Venezuela, Colombia

NEW DELHI- With rising concerns over the political situation in Venezuela, India on January 9 said that it is closely monitoring developments in the region and stands ready to offer assistance to the Indian community in the South American country and neighboring Colombia.

“We are closely monitoring developments in Venezuela. The Indian community there is small, around 50 people, and our Embassy is in touch with them through a travel advisory. In Colombia, where there are about 650 Indian nationals, our Embassy is also in close contact. As far as our commitment to Indian nationals is concerned, whenever support is needed, we will extend all necessary assistance,” the Ministry of External Affairs spokesperson Randhir Jaiswal said on January 9.

The crisis in Venezuela came after a controversial US military operation on January 3 that resulted in the capture of Venezuelan President Nicolas Maduro and his wife, Cilia Flores, by US special forces in Caracas and their transfer to the United States to face criminal charges.

“We are concerned at the developments, but we would really urge all the parties involved to now sit down and sort of come to a position which is in the interest of the well-being and the safety of the people of Venezuela,” EAM Jaishankar said at an event in Luxembourg earlier this week.

In another statement, the MEA stated that the Embassy of India in Caracas is in contact with members of the Indian community and is providing all possible assistance.

“Recent developments in Venezuela are a matter of deep concern. We are closely monitoring the evolving situation. India reaffirms its support to the well-being and safety of the people of Venezuela. We call upon all concerned to address issues peacefully through dialogue, ensuring peace and stability of the region,” it further read.

“The Embassy of India in Caracas is in contact with members of the Indian community and will continue to provide all possible assistance,” it added. (IANS)