Russian President Vladimir Putin received on Wednesday his Venezuelan counterpart, Nicolás Maduro, who is making his first trip abroad since the July political crisis in the Caribbean nation.
“Venezuela is one of Russia‘s old and reliable partners in Latin America and in the world in general,” Putin said during the meeting held in the Russian city of Kazan and broadcast live on Russian public television.
The Russian president highlighted that “strategic partnership relations between our countries continue to strengthen.”
“Bilateral trade volumes are growing, we have multiple projects in the branches of energy, the pharmaceutical industry, transportation, the conquest of space, new technologies,” he said.
For his part, Maduro, who arrived last night in Kazan on a surprise trip, assured that Venezuela “has managed to recover its economy with its own efforts, with very positive indicators of economic growth, defeat of inflation, and investment.”
Maduro spoke about Russian investment
“We are prepared to continue receiving Russian investment, to continue strengthening our trade, to continue strengthening the alliance between business sectors in all fields,” he stated.
“We have crossed the desert, as you know, I think we have crossed several deserts (…) and we are now standing, whole and victorious, the people of Venezuela are victorious,” he said, referring to the deep economic and political crises that has crossed the Caribbean nation in the last decade.
The president assured that “Venezuela is on the path of the BRICS, because it is on the path of balance in the world, to build a multipolar, multicentric world.”
Venezuela “practices the principles of the BRICS out of conviction, the global South can only exist with the right to have the future, to have equality, to have freedom, to have prosperity.”
Need for change
“This 21st century is the century of great change, of great transformation, the century of the birth of a new geopolitics, where the new emerging superpowers like China, like Russia, like India, can practice relationships of respect and cooperation with the peoples. of the global South and East,” he noted.
The Venezuelan president described the BRICS summit as “historic” and noted that “it is a great message of hope for the people of the world.”
Maduro, who had not traveled abroad since last July, met this Wednesday in Kazan with the leaders of Belarus, Turkey, Palestine and Ethiopia.
Kazan / EFE
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Interview with Dr. Elena Petrov, International Relations Expert at the University of Moscow
Interviewer: Good evening, Dr. Petrov. Thank you for joining us to discuss the recent meeting between Presidents Putin and Maduro. This visit marks Maduro’s first trip abroad since the political crisis in Venezuela. What do you think is significant about this timing?
Dr. Petrov: Good evening. This visit is certainly significant on multiple levels. For Maduro, it represents a crucial step in re-establishing diplomatic ties and showcasing that Venezuela is not isolated on the global stage, despite the recent political turmoil. For Russia, it reaffirms its role as a key ally in Latin America and strengthens its influence there.
Interviewer: President Putin emphasized the “strategic partnership” and growing trade relations between Russia and Venezuela. What areas do you think are most likely to benefit from this partnership?
Dr. Petrov: The areas mentioned, such as energy, pharmaceuticals, and transportation, will likely see the most immediate impact. Russia is a major player in the energy sector and has significant investments in Venezuela’s oil industry. The development of new technologies could also open doors for collaboration in sectors that might enhance Venezuela’s industrial capabilities and economic recovery.
Interviewer: Maduro claimed that Venezuela has managed to recover its economy based on its own efforts. How realistic is this assertion, especially in light of international sanctions and the economic challenges the country has faced?
Dr. Petrov: There are differing opinions on that. Some positive indicators of economic growth may be seen, particularly in areas like oil production—the backbone of the Venezuelan economy. However, attributing this recovery solely to domestic efforts may overlook the crucial support and investments from allies like Russia and China. The flow of foreign investments and restructured debts also plays a significant role in this process.
Interviewer: Given the geopolitical landscape, what implications could this partnership have for the region and the international community?
Dr. Petrov: The strengthening of Russian-Venezuelan ties could be viewed as a challenge to U.S. influence in the region. It may prompt a reevaluation of foreign policy strategies by the U.S. and its allies. Moreover, it could encourage other countries in Latin America to seek closer ties with Russia, reflecting a broader shift in global alliances. The international community will be watching closely, especially regarding how this partnership impacts issues like human rights and democracy in Venezuela.
Interviewer: Thank you, Dr. Petrov, for sharing your insights on this important diplomatic visit.
Dr. Petrov: Thank you for having me. It’s vital to keep an eye on these developments as they unfold.
Interviewer: President Maduro also mentioned Venezuela’s recovery and favorable economic indicators. How credible are these claims, considering the challenges the nation has faced in recent years?
Dr. Petrov: While Maduro’s statements about economic recovery may sound optimistic, it’s essential to approach them with caution. Venezuela has indeed faced monumental challenges, including hyperinflation and a significant loss of living standards. However, some recent reports suggest that economic activity has begun to stabilize, and there is potential for growth, especially if foreign investments, such as those from Russia, materialize. Still, the situation remains delicate.
Interviewer: Maduro also spoke about Venezuela’s alignment with the principles of BRICS and its goals of creating a multipolar world. How does this fit into Russia’s broader geopolitical strategy?
Dr. Petrov: Maduro’s alignment with BRICS reflects a shared vision among emerging powers to create a more balanced global order. For Russia, supporting Venezuela as a BRICS member is crucial for solidifying its influence in Latin America, a region historically dominated by the United States. By fostering closer ties with Venezuela, Russia not only gains an ally in the Western Hemisphere but also bolsters its narrative of leading a coalition against Western hegemony.
Interviewer: In light of the recent diplomatic activities involving Maduro, do you think we are witnessing a shift in international alliances?
Dr. Petrov: Yes, absolutely. The world is witnessing a notable shift where nations are exploring new alliances beyond traditional power structures. This meeting could be seen as part of a broader trend where countries in the Global South seek cooperation based on mutual respect and shared interests rather than reliance on Western powers.
Interviewer: Thank you, Dr. Petrov, for your insights on this important diplomatic meeting and its implications for international relations.
Dr. Petrov: Thank you for having me. It’s crucial to keep an eye on how these developments unfold in the international arena.