EU PRESIDENCY STATEMENT ON VENEZUELA

www.mpa.gr Athens, 22 January 2003 (16:20 UTC+2)

The European Union, through a statement issued by the Greek EU Presidency, welcomes the establishment of the “Friends of Venezuela” Group made up of Brazil, Chile, Mexico, Portugal, Spain and the United States.

The EU expresses its support to the contribution the “Friends of Venezuela” Group could have to the efforts aimed at finding a viable solution to the crisis in Venezuela in accordance with resolution 833 adopted by the Organization of American States. The resolution provides for a peaceful, democratic and constitutional solution through elections.

The EU urges the institutions and the people of Venezuela to seek a solution assisted by the OAS General Secretary and the “Friends of Venezuela” Group within the framework of democratic principles and the state of law.