Caracas. “We firmly condemn the decision of the Constituent Assembly to appropriate the legislative powers that lie with the legitimately elected Parliament under the 1999 constitution. This is another step moving Venezuela further from the fundamental principles of democracy, the rule of law and towards an autocratic regime. We urge the Venezuelan government to urgently put in place the necessary measures to restore democracy and the rule of law, respect for human rights, to end the persecution and intimidation of those expressing dissent, liberating political prisoners and starting a dialogue with the opposition based on the four conditions set by the Holy Seat. In the absence of urgent steps, Italy, together with European partners, will evaluate the measures to be imposed, while continuing to monitor with great care Italian and European citizens residing in the country. ” According to the Minister for Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation, Angelino Alfano, commenting on the political developments in Venezuela. (9Colonne)
