After 17 years of estrangement: Israel returns to talks with the South American country

Israel and Venezuela have agreed to renew consular ties for the first time since diplomatic relations were severed in 2009. The move follows the visit of the Israeli humanitarian delegation to the country after the double earthquake in June. A coordination mechanism will be established to provide consular services to citizens of both countries.

Israel and Venezuela have agreed to renew consular ties, for the first time since diplomatic relations between the countries were severed in 2009. The joint statement by the two countries, published after the visit of the Israeli humanitarian delegation to Venezuela following the double earthquake that occurred on June 24, states that a coordination mechanism will be established to enable the provision of consular services to citizens of both countries residing in the other country. The statement emphasized the importance of the connection between Israel and the Jewish community in Venezuela, which constitutes a bridge of historic friendship between the countries. The Israeli delegation, led by the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and the Home Front Command, provided professional assistance to the emergency and reconstruction efforts in the country. The move constitutes a significant step in normalizing relations between the countries after a long estrangement.