Switzerland will represent Ecuador’s interests in Venezuela, formalized by an agreement between Swiss Foreign Minister Ignazio Cassis and Ecuadorian Ambassador Verónica Bustamante Ponce. Swiss embassies in Quito and Caracas will facilitate this diplomatic role, amid strained relations between Ecuador and Venezuela after a recent election. Switzerland’s protective mandates include various other countries, emphasizing its diplomatic tradition.
On Thursday, Switzerland agreed to represent Ecuador’s diplomatic interests in Venezuela upon the request of Quito. An official agreement was signed by Swiss Foreign Minister Ignazio Cassis and Verónica Bustamante Ponce, Ecuador’s ambassador to Switzerland. The Swiss embassies in both Quito and Caracas will serve as diplomatic conduits, while a designated consular section, responsible for protecting Ecuador’s interests, will operate within the Ecuadorian embassy compound in Caracas.
The move comes in light of severed diplomatic relations between Ecuador and Venezuela following the Venezuelan presidential election last July, as the Swiss Foreign Ministry reported. This decision reflects ongoing diplomatic tensions prior to their formal break. Switzerland’s tradition of providing good offices internationally continues, amplifying its current protective power mandates which encompass various nations. Notably, Switzerland has represented interests for several countries, including Iran, the United States, and Russia.
The diplomatic relationship between Ecuador and Venezuela has been strained due to political tensions, culminating in the severance of formal ties in mid-2023 following a contentious presidential election in Venezuela. As a consequence, Ecuador sought an intermediary to help navigate its interests within Venezuela, leading to Switzerland’s engagement in this protective mandate. Switzerland is historically known for such roles, often stepping in to provide consular support and mediation during periods of diplomatic estrangement between countries.
In conclusion, Switzerland’s assumption of Ecuador’s protective power mandate in Venezuela underscores its longstanding tradition of diplomatic mediation. This agreement highlights the necessity for Ecuador to maintain its international interests amidst a backdrop of strained relations with Venezuela, while reinforcing Switzerland’s role as a facilitator of diplomatic dialogues. As Switzerland continues to balance multiple protective mandates, its actions reflect a commitment to supporting international relations and stability.
Original Source: www.swissinfo.ch
