Mr. President,

First I would like to congratulate you on your presidency of the Security Council in January.

I would also like to thank Ms. Rosemary DiCarlo for conveying to us the UN Secretary-General’s remarks on the latest developments in Venezuela.

Mr. President,

France has continued to stand in solidarity with the Venezuelan people as they face the crisis they have been enduring for too many years, and in particular since the summer of 2024.

On July 28, 2024, the Venezuelan people peacefully exercised their right to vote in order to shape the future of their country. However, their right to choose their leaders has been stripped away by Nicolás Maduro. Must we recall the facts? The electoral process was marred by numerous irregularities and the final vote count was marred by a flagrant lack of transparency.

In light of the democratic aspirations of the Venezuelan people, Nicolás Maduro has systematically responded with repression of dissident voices, of members of the opposition and of civil society, and by carrying out numerous arbitrary detentions. France has always expressed itself with clarity about the fact that these practices are unacceptable and that respect for human rights must be upheld.

Mr. President,

The military operation that led to the capture of Nicolás Maduro contravenes the principles of peaceful settlement of disputes and non-use of force.

The proliferation of violations of the United Nations Charter and international law by States vested with the responsibility of permanent members of this Council undermines the very foundations of the international order.

Violating the principles of the Charter, including the principles of respect for the independence and territorial integrity of States, undermines the foundations of the United Nations and weakens international peace and security.

France remains faithful and committed to respect for the United Nations Charter and the principle of peaceful settlement of disputes. We must uphold these principles at all times and in all places. Respect for these principles is essential.

Mr. President,

France reiterates its commitment to respecting the will of the Venezuelan people.

The transition which is currently opening up in Venezuela needs to be peaceful, democratic, and respectful of the choices of the Venezuelan people, who are a sovereign people.

This transition must be led by and for the Venezuelans.

France stands ready, alongside States of the region and its European Union partners, to support dialogue with a view to restoring free democratic expression in Venezuela and to support regional stability. This must also be the role of this Council.

Thank you.