Venezuela and Chile have announced the beginning of a roadmap to gradually resume bilateral relations, according to a joint statement issued by the two governments.

Ties between the two countries ruptured in 2024 after Venezuela ordered out diplomatic staffers from many countries that questioned the election results that year, including Chile.

In the first stage, the two countries agreed to reactivate consular relations as an initial step toward the full resumption of bilateral ties.

This is aimed at ensuring consular protection and services for their nationals residing in both countries.

The joint initiative is based on the historic ties of friendship and Latin American solidarity that have linked Venezuela and Chile since their beginnings as republics.

The two governments said the process would be grounded in constructive dialogue, under the principles of mutual respect, reciprocity and strict adherence to international law.

 (Xinhua/NAN)