On December 19, 2024, Russian Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov held a constructive telephone conversation with Yvan Gil, the Minister of Foreign Affairs of the Bolivarian Republic of Venezuela. The two diplomats engaged in a wide-ranging discussion on the deepening of bilateral relations and reaffirmed their commitment to enhancing cooperation between their countries, both on the global stage and within their respective regions.
Strengthening Russian-Venezuelan Cooperation
The phone call underscored the strong and enduring partnership between Russia and Venezuela, which has been marked by cooperation across various sectors, including energy, defense, and trade. Both ministers highlighted their shared intent to continue and intensify their collaborative efforts in addressing global challenges, reaffirming that the two nations stand united in the pursuit of mutual interests.
Lavrov and Gil exchanged views on key global developments and discussed opportunities for further coordination in international forums. Both sides agreed to continue promoting their joint agenda on a range of issues, from economic development to political and security matters, stressing the importance of upholding the principles of sovereignty, equality, and non-interference in the internal affairs of states.
Support for Venezuela’s Leadership
In a key moment of the conversation, Foreign Minister Lavrov extended Russia’s full support for the leadership of Venezuela ahead of President Nicolás Maduro’s upcoming inauguration for another term in office. Lavrov emphasized Russia’s unwavering commitment to standing with Venezuela and its leadership as the country continues to navigate complex political and economic challenges.
Maduro’s inauguration marks another important milestone in Venezuela’s ongoing efforts to maintain sovereignty and stability in the face of external pressures. Lavrov conveyed his confidence that under Maduro’s leadership, Venezuela would continue to make progress in advancing its national interests and fostering greater cooperation with its international partners, particularly Russia.
Ongoing Bilateral Collaboration
Lavrov and Gil also discussed ongoing projects and future initiatives aimed at expanding their bilateral cooperation. Venezuela and Russia have maintained a strategic alliance in various sectors, and both ministers underscored the importance of advancing this partnership to benefit the peoples of both nations. This includes strengthening trade relations, enhancing energy cooperation, and deepening political ties.
Russia has been a steadfast ally of Venezuela throughout the country’s turbulent years, providing support in the face of international sanctions and economic challenges. The two countries have cultivated close diplomatic ties, with Russia providing Venezuela with economic and military assistance, and Venezuela being a key partner in Russia’s broader strategy for Latin America.
Commitment to Global Cooperation
In closing, Lavrov and Gil reiterated their commitment to further enhancing bilateral and multilateral cooperation, particularly within the United Nations, where both Russia and Venezuela advocate for a just and equitable international order. Both countries have also worked closely in regional organizations such as the Non-Aligned Movement and the Bolivarian Alliance for the Americas (ALBA), where they seek to challenge imperialistic forces and promote solidarity among developing nations.
The conversation between Lavrov and Gil comes at a time when geopolitical tensions are high, particularly in the Americas, where U.S. influence continues to be a source of friction. Venezuela has long been a target of U.S. sanctions and political pressure, but its alliance with Russia, alongside other like-minded countries, remains a crucial element in countering external interference and ensuring the preservation of Venezuela’s sovereignty.
Looking Ahead
This diplomatic exchange between Lavrov and Gil is a reflection of the growing strategic partnership between Russia and Venezuela. As both countries face pressures from external forces, their collaboration will continue to serve as a pillar of mutual support in advancing their respective national and global agendas.
The phone call also signals the ongoing importance of Russian-Venezuelan relations in a rapidly changing international landscape, where both nations are committed to standing together in defense of their sovereign rights and global influence.
As Venezuela prepares for a new term under President Maduro, Lavrov’s words of support reaffirm Russia’s role as a key ally in Venezuela’s political and economic trajectory. Both nations are determined to navigate these turbulent times with mutual respect and cooperation, charting a path forward for enhanced global coordination.