Israel and Venezuela agree to renew consular relations after years without diplomatic ties
The agreement represents a notable development in Israel-Venezuela relations and opens a new channel for continued contact and cooperation after more than 15 years without diplomatic relations
Israel and Venezuela have agreed to renew consular relations following a series of talks between Israeli Foreign Minister Gideon Sa’ar and Venezuelan Foreign Minister Felix Plasencia in recent weeks and days, marking a significant step in restoring practical ties between the two countries.
Under the agreement, Israel and Venezuela will establish a coordination mechanism to facilitate the provision of consular services to citizens of both countries. The mechanism will create an official channel for coordination between Jerusalem and Caracas, despite the absence of formal diplomatic relations since 2009.
The renewed consular framework is expected to enable the two governments to address practical issues affecting their citizens, including consular assistance and related services.
The two sides also agreed to continue cooperation on emergency response and reconstruction efforts in Venezuela following the earthquakes that struck the country on June 24.
Following the earthquakes, an Israeli aid delegation traveled to Venezuela to assist with the emergency response and recovery efforts. The delegation was led by Israel’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs and the Israel Defense Forces’ Home Front Command, providing professional expertise in emergency management and reconstruction.
The renewed cooperation comes against the backdrop of a broader effort to establish practical channels of communication between Israel and Venezuela, even as the two countries remain without full diplomatic relations.
In their joint statement, Israel and Venezuela also mentioned the importance of the relationship between the State of Israel and Venezuela’s Jewish community.
The agreement represents a notable development in Israel-Venezuela relations and opens a new channel for continued contact and cooperation after more than 15 years without diplomatic relations.