Insights from Venezuela’s Ambassador on Communes, Sanctions, and Global Relations

In a recent Q&A, Ambassador César Trompiz of Venezuela discussed the state of communes, a shift toward self-sustainability, relations with Bolivia and China, and the challenges posed by U.S. sanctions and military threats. The ambassador emphasized the importance of Venezuelan autonomy and resilience in overcoming external pressures depriving the nation of economic freedom.

On February 10, a delegation from the United States and Canada visited César Trompiz, the Venezuelan Ambassador to Bolivia, at the Plaza Hugo Chávez within the Venezuelan Embassy’s grounds. Instead of delivering a formal speech, Ambassador Trompiz engaged the group in a candid Q&A session, providing insights into Venezuela’s political landscape, economy, and social developments. The session lasted for nearly two hours, allowing the delegation members to freely explore various topics.

Ambassador Trompiz began by discussing the state of communes in Venezuela, emphasizing the need to view them in distinct stages. Initially fueled by oil revenues, the communities faced challenges due to blockades that forced a shift toward self-sustainability. The Venezuelan government has passed social laws, which increased support for fishing and farming, resulting in a successful execution rate for various projects aiming to revitalize the commune system.

Responding to inquiries about small-scale farming organizations, he explained that Venezuela’s dependency on oil led to a lack of local agricultural production. Fortunately, recent efforts have fostered a return to indigenous seeds, resulting in increased stability in agricultural production. Notably, Venezuela has transitioned from importing 80% of its food to now producing 90% of what it consumes, which underscores the success of local farming initiatives supported by the Ministry of Agriculture.

A participant raised concerns regarding the legitimacy of recent presidential elections in Venezuela, noting that leftist leaders from other countries expressed skepticism regarding Nicolás Maduro’s election. Ambassador Trompiz attributed this to geopolitical complexities and the shifting political alliances influenced by the U.S. elections. He lamented that some leaders showed a lack of support for Venezuela during critical moments in its history.

In discussing relations with Bolivia, Ambassador Trompiz expressed positive sentiments, citing Venezuela’s connections with Bolivian historical figures like Simón Bolívar. He underscored Venezuela’s determination to strengthen economic ties and noted that a visit from President Maduro to Bolivia is anticipated soon.

Ambassador Trompiz addressed concerns over military threats posed by the U.S., describing sanctions as acts of war that have resulted in significant casualties in Venezuela. He also highlighted the history of U.S. military interventions and asserted that Venezuela has developed measures for self-defense, including substantial training of civilian forces.

When queried about relationships with global powers, the ambassador noted that China’s engagement with Venezuela remains free from interference in internal matters, contrasting it with relations with the U.S. He articulated that Venezuela values its independence and cooperation with China purely as business partners, without further debt.

The discussion also touched on Venezuela’s need to rethink its international financial relationships in light of its aspirations to engage with BRICS nations amidst Brazil’s challenging foreign policies. Furthermore, he commented on the recent political upheaval in Peru, characterizing it as a coup involving ultra-right factions.

On the topic of emigration, Ambassador Trompiz clarified that the number of Venezuelans who had left the country is closer to two million, not seven million, and he mentioned efforts to facilitate their return. He criticized U.S. migration policies and outlined the immense challenges sanctions create for Venezuela’s economy, including their impact on cultural participation and sports.

In closing, the ambassador reiterated the pressing issues of U.S. imperialist expansion and its implications for Venezuelan sovereignty, emphasizing that economic resilience and collaboration within Latin America are vital for Venezuela’s future.

Following the conclusion of the Q&A, the delegation expressed gratitude for Ambassador Trompiz’s openness to dialogue as they concluded their visit.

In summary, Ambassador César Trompiz provided an extensive overview of Venezuela’s socio-political climate during a recent Q&A session with a North American delegation. The ambassador discussed the evolution of communal living, agricultural self-sufficiency, geopolitical challenges, and positive diplomatic relations with Bolivia and China. He expressed concerns over U.S. military threats and sanctions, elucidating how these external pressures have shaped Venezuela’s responses and economic strategies. Ultimately, Ambassador Trompiz emphasized the importance of Venezuela’s autonomy and resilience in the face of adversity.

Original Source: peoplesworld.org