Hypocrisy in relations with Venezuela

Several MPs from the PSD and the right-wing parties have made critical comments regarding José Luís Carneiro’s trip to Venezuela. This is a strange attitude, given that two days later, the Regional Director for Madeiran Communities landed in Caracas, followed immediately by the Secretary of State for Communities, both with practically identical itineraries. It seemed like a competition to see who would arrive first, when the protection of the Portuguese community should be viewed by everyone as a national objective.

Some critics of the trip even went as far as proclaiming the absurd idea that it constituted a legitimization of the regime. In fact, the PS leader did not wait for TAP flights to Caracas to resume; he was the first to call for the release of those detained—utilizing the best available channels, which are Luso-Venezuelans in prominent positions within political institutions—and to request protection for the important and influential Luso-Venezuelan community, the engine of the country’s economic life. He also called for increased attention to the thousands of compatriots living in state of great social precariousness. Coincidence or not, the truth is that two days after the PS delegation left Caracas, the Amnesty Law was extended for another 30 days, which opens up hope for the release of the detained Luso-Venezuelans.

In many of the critical comments, what stood out was not just an indifference toward the yearnings and expectations of the community, but also a certain detachment regarding the transformations currently underway in Venezuela. As detestable as Nicolas Maduro may have been, his capture nonetheless remains a violation of International Law and could never be classified as “benign,” as Foreign Minister Paulo Rangel stated.

In truth, Venezuela is changing following Maduro’s capture, particularly due to the easing of sanctions by the Trump Administration and the recognition of Delcy Rodriguez’s government. Sanctions against her have already been lifted, and it is expected that the European Union will soon do the same.

It is inconsistent that the same critics of the PS leader’s trip remained silent regarding the legitimization of and the lifting of sanctions on Delcy Rodriguez, as well as the institutional meetings held by representatives of both the National Government and the Autonomous Region of Madeira. Even fewer criticisms were heard regarding any “legitimization of the regime” when the Secretary of State for Communities stated that the Portuguese Government is willing to help Venezuela in its political transition process—much as José Luís Carneiro also did.

Instead of such pathetic political hypocrisy, it would be better if a matter as important as the relations between Portugal and Venezuela, and the support and monitoring of the Portuguese community, could foster convergence among the various political forces.

As noted by Luso-Venezuelan entrepreneurs in Altos Mirandinos, it is of the utmost importance to promote bilateral channels of dialogue, thereby contributing to greater predictability for investments and economic activity, and ensuring the community is better valued.

It is worth recalling what José Luís Carneiro said at the closing of the 25th PS Congress, referring to his trip to Venezuela: “I was with our people, and it will always be so! I will always be closer to those who are furthest away.”

Paulo Pisco Director of the PS Department of Communities

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