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. -News for Wed. 17 April to Fri. 19 April 2002


OAS Urges Swift Reconciliation in Venezuela


VOA News
19 Apr 2002 16:04 UTC
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Organization of American States (OAS) diplomats meeting in Washington have urged Venezuelan President Hugo Chavez to reconcile with opponents who temporarily overthrew him last week.

 In a special vote early Friday, the OAS General Assembly urged all parties in Venezuela to respect the rule of law and essentials of democracy. During talks on Thursday, OAS nations offered their support to help Caracas prevent conditions that could lead to a repeat of last week's strife.
 
 

<b>Cesar Gaviria</b><br>(VOA photo - G. Flakus)
Cesar Gaviria
(VOA photo - G. Flakus) 
U.S. Secretary of State Colin Powell suggested that OAS Secretary-General Cesar Gaviria mediate a national dialogue for Venezuela. The Chavez government rejected the proposal, saying reconciliation was an internal matter. Mr. Powell made his remarks following Secretary-General Gaviria's report on his latest fact-finding mission to Venezuela.

 Earlier Thursday, President Bush said it was important for President Chavez to address the factors behind Venezuela's political instability and embrace the fundamentals of democracy, including freedom of the media. 

Massive anti-government demonstrations one week ago led to the brief ouster of President Chavez after the military accused him of violating Venezuela's constitution by sending snipers to shoot at unarmed protesters. At least 17 people were killed and more than 200 others wounded. 

Some information for this report provided by AP and AFP. 

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