April 10, 2015: The National Democratic Congress notes with great concern the deterioration in relations between the United States of America ( United States) and the Bolivarian Republic of Venezuela ( Venezuela).
We hold firmly to the belief that differences between states in our hemisphere must be addressed in good faith and resolved through meaningful dialogue and peaceful means.
We believe that dialogue must replace confrontation at every opportunity and hemispheric goodwill and cooperation must be pursued in the interest of the people of the region at all times.
We adhere to the principle of non interference in the internal affairs of sovereign states. At the same time, we believe, and express the hope that any internal differences existing or arising in any hemispheric nation must and will be resolved by peaceful means, having due regard to the authority of the state and the fundamental rights and freedoms of its citizens.
We are aware that the United states and Venezuela have long enjoyed close economic, cultural and social ties and believe that these ties redound to the benefit of the citizens of both countries. We express the hope that as hemispheric neighbours, both countries would see the benefit of strengthening these ties.
We consider the deterioration in relations between the United States and Venezuela an unfortunate development. It goes against the tide of hemispheric dialogue as exemplified by the historic decision by the United States and Cuba to restore diplomatic relations after fifty years of bitter rivalry and confrontation.
We are heartened and relieved by the recent declaration attributed to Senior White House Advisor, Benjamin. J. Rhodes that “The United States does not believe that Venezuela poses some threat to our national security.” This, we believe, will help restore mutual confidence and give much needed impetus to a process of normalisation of relations and the reduction of tension in the region.
We join with our OECS colleagues in making a strong call for dialogue in a spirit of hemispheric solidarity and respect of the independence and sovereignty of both countries.