SG/SM/8566
 18 December 2002

SECRETARY-GENERAL REITERATES FULL SUPPORT FOR MEDIATION EFFORTS IN VENEZUELA BY OAS SECRETARY-GENERAL

NEW YORK, 17 December (UN Headquarters) -- The following statement was issued today by the Spokesman for Secretary-General Kofi Annan:

The Secretary-General reiterates his full support for the mediation efforts undertaken in Venezuela by the Secretary-General of the Organization of American States (OAS), Cesar Gaviria. These talks provide an opportunity which must not be missed to find a peaceful political solution to the present crisis on the basis of constitutionality.

The Secretary-General urges the Government and the opposition to cooperate in earnest with Mr. Gaviria's efforts, and to refrain from behaviour that disrupts normal life in Venezuela and may sharpen tensions.

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