Venezuela’s interim government, opposition wrap up first round of transition talks

Venezuela’s interim government and opposition representatives have wrapped up a first round of talks aimed at reconciling the nation following the US removal of leader Nicolas Maduro.

A joint statement issued by the two sides on Wednesday highlighted agreement on two topics after several days of discussion: reforming the judiciary, and seeking access to frozen funds to aid in earthquake recovery efforts.

Both sides committed to “initiate a process that contributes to the transformation of the justice system,” including “Reforms to the Organic Law” of Venezuela’s top court, the Supreme Tribunal of Justice (TSJ).

The document did not mention the National Electoral Council, another body the opposition hopes to overhaul.

In light of the devastating twin earthquakes on June 24, which have left over 6,300 people dead, both sides also agreed to work toward the release of “Venezuela’s international reserve assets held at the Bank of England.”

The joint statement also called for the establishment of “mechanisms for transparency, traceability, and auditing” to make sure the funds are properly used.

Interim president Delcy Rodriguez’s government was represented at the talks by her brother Jorge Rodriguez, who is also the head of Venezuela’s National Assembly.

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