Good afternoon Mr. Chair and members of the subcommittee. I'm here to give you an overview of the situation in Venezuela.
Given our long-standing bilateral ties with the people of Venezuela, we are gravely concerned about the rapidly deteriorating human rights situation as well as the political and economic crisis that is affecting so many Venezuelans at present, who struggle daily to gain access to basic food and medicine.
Among many concerns, let me highlight the sharp rise in the arbitrary arrest and detention of political figures. Three high-profile cases include the ongoing detention of opposition leaders Leopoldo Lopez (leader of Voluntad Popular), Antonio Ledezma (mayor of Greater Caracas) and Daniel Ceballos (former mayor of San Cristobal).
But they are not alone. One independent NGO, Foro Penal, estimates there have been more than 160 detentions for political reasons since September 1, and more than 2,400 since the beginning of the year. Most, but not all, have been released, yet the fear and intimidation remains.
Minister Dion has issued statements calling for the release of political prisoners and for political expression in Venezuela to be respected. He emphasized that dialogue between the government and opposition is essential to overcome the crisis. The two are intrinsically linked. For successful dialogue to take place, it is essential that elected representatives and political actors operate free of intimidation.
I would like to emphasize that Canada is closely watching efforts by Venezuelans to organize a referendum to recall President Nicolas Maduro. This type of referendum is permitted under Venezuela’s constitution. However, we are discouraged that the National Electoral Commission continues to throw up arbitrary roadblocks to this process, which call into question its impartiality.
Canada will continue to press these concerns with Venezuelan officials bilaterally and within the Organization of American States.
I'm happy to answer any questions. Merci.