Switzerland Takes on Protective Power Role for Ecuador in Venezuela

Switzerland will now represent Ecuador’s diplomatic interests in Venezuela following a formal agreement signed by Swiss Foreign Minister Ignazio Cassis and Ecuador’s Ambassador to Switzerland. This step comes after the severance of diplomatic relations between Ecuador and Venezuela after the recent elections. Swiss embassies in Quito and Caracas will facilitate consular functions to safeguard Ecuador’s interests in the region.

Switzerland, at the request of Ecuador, has officially taken on the role of representing Ecuador’s interests in Venezuela. On Thursday, Swiss Foreign Minister Ignazio Cassis and Ecuador’s Ambassador to Switzerland, Verónica Bustamante Ponce, signed an agreement formalizing this protective power mandate.

To facilitate this representation, Swiss embassies located in Quito and Caracas will act as diplomatic channels for Ecuador. The Swiss foreign ministry announced that consular responsibilities would be handled by a special section dedicated to safeguarding Ecuador’s interests, which will operate from the premises of the Ecuadorian embassy in Caracas.

This diplomatic shift comes in the wake of severed relations between Quito and Caracas following Venezuela’s presidential elections last July, which further escalated existing tensions. Switzerland’s commitment to serving as a mediator is in line with its longstanding tradition of offering “good offices,” and this new mandate adds to its existing protective roles for other nations, totaling seven.

Historically, Switzerland has represented various nations as their protective power, including Iran’s interests in Egypt since 1979, and the United States in Iran since 1980. Notably, since this year, Switzerland has also been tasked with representing Ecuador’s interests in Mexico and vice versa.

The context of Switzerland’s role as a protecting power stems from its tradition of neutrality and diplomatic engagement. As countries experience diplomatic conflicts or sever relations, Switzerland frequently steps in to uphold the interests of those nations, promoting dialogue and facilitating communication. The current mandate with Ecuador extends this tradition, particularly in a region marked by political tensions and diplomatic strain. The signing of the agreement reflects the importance of diplomacy, even amidst challenging international relations.

In summary, Switzerland has undertaken the protective power mandate for Ecuador in Venezuela, exemplifying its commitment to diplomatic mediation and engagement. This agreement will enable Swiss embassies to represent Ecuador’s interests, amidst growing tensions between Quito and Caracas. Switzerland’s involvement underlines its historical role in facilitating international diplomacy and conflict resolution, thereby contributing to dialogue in a tumultuous political landscape.

Original Source: www.swissinfo.ch