ISLAMABAD: Pakistan’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs on Sunday said that the country attached “great importance to the well-being of the people of Venezuela,” and viewed the evolving situation in the South American country with concern as the US seized leader Nicolas Maduro in Caracas a day ago.
A lightning attack by the US on Saturday resulted in special forces grabbing Maduro and his wife from where the couple was taken to New York, facing trial on drug trafficking and weapons charges. The United Nations Security Council decided to discuss the US operation. US President Trump has said that US would "run" Venezuela and tap its huge oil reserves.
In a press release issued by the foreign office, the nation urged the need for restraint and de-escalation to end the crisis, underscoring the necessity for adherence to the principles of the UN Charter as well as international law to resolve all outstanding issues.
The foreign office said we were closely monitoring the developments and remain engaged in ensuring the safety and security of members of the Pakistani community in Venezuela.
Earlier today, Secretary of State Marco Rubio said the US was not at war with Venezuela but was prepared to use sustained pressure and limited force to protect US national interests, prevent rival powers from controlling Venezuelan oil, and dismantle drug trafficking networks tied to the former government.
Separately, China called on the US to immediately release the Venezuelan president, whereas Russia's Foreign Ministry also issued a statement concerning developments around the country.
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