Transcript: Juan Guaido on Venezuela’s ties with China
- Self-declared interim president tells the South China Morning Post he wants a ‘productive and mutually beneficial’ relationship and is ready to engage Chinese officials in dialogue ‘as soon as possible’
In a written interview with the South China Morning Post, Venezuela’s self-declared interim president Juan Guaido said he wanted a “productive and mutually beneficial” relationship with China and was ready to engage Chinese officials in dialogue “as soon as possible”.
Here is the transcript of the written interview.
In what ways can Venezuela manage a peaceful and inclusive transition under your leadership?
JUAN GUAIDO: For several years now the Venezuelan people have peacefully demonstrated against an irresponsible administration that has mismanaged our public resources and has allowed for an endemic corruption, which has ultimately destroyed our societal well-being and any potential for development.
A peaceful and inclusive transition is already guaranteed as almost 90 per cent of the population has stated very clearly that they want a political change. Maduro is increasingly isolated and is largely acting alone. Even within his ranks, government supporters and military officers are coming forward and abiding to the constitution. Just to name one example: the military attaché at the Venezuelan embassy in Washington, Colonel José Luis Silva, has chosen to adhere to the constitution and submit to the command of the interim government.
On the international level, we are also witnessing that Maduro has lost support. That is why it is up to him to accept the demands of a society who is determined to move towards freedom and progress.
