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February 20th, 2014

NDP calls for restraint and dialogue in Venezuela

The NDP is deeply concerned by the escalation of violence in Venezuela.

“My thoughts are with the families of those killed or injured during the ongoing public protests in Venezuela,” said NDP Foreign Affairs Critic Paul Dewar (Ottawa Centre). “The Canadian government should urge Venezuelan authorities to be proactive in seeking to de-escalate the conflict and protecting the human rights and democratic freedoms of Venezuelan citizens.”

Protests have grown in size since they began earlier this month. Several people have been killed during clashes between demonstrators and security forces, and many more injured or arrested.

“Canada should play a leading role in urging all sides in Venezuela to exercise restraint, and engage in a political dialogue that respects legitimate grievances and differences of opinion,” added NDP International Cooperation Critic Hélène Laverdière (Laurier—Sainte-Marie). “Divisive rhetoric and actions only delay and jeopardize the inclusive political solution that the Venezuelan people deserve.”