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New Delhi: Reacting to the unprecedented developments in Venezuela, India on Sunday said the situation was a "matter of deep concern" and that it was closely monitoring the evolving situation.
"India reaffirms its support to the well-being and safety of the people of Venezuela. We call upon all concerned to address issues peacefully through dialogue, ensuring peace and stability of the region," the Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) said in a statement. It added that the Embassy of India in Caracas is in contact with members of the Indian community and will continue to provide all possible assistance.
Earlier on Saturday, the MEA issued a travel advisory asking Indian citizens to avoid travelling to the South American country unless absolutely necessary, following the US military operation in the country.
"In view of recent developments in Venezuela, Indian nationals are strongly advised to avoid all non-essential travel to Venezuela," the advisory said. Indians currently in the country have been advised to exercise extreme caution, restrict their movement and remain in regular contact with the Indian Embassy in Caracas.
The MEA said Indian nationals could reach the embassy through its official email address or emergency contact numbers, including WhatsApp, for assistance.
The advisory came after a pre-dawn US military operation in Caracas in which elite US Army Delta Force commandos captured Venezuelan President Nicolas Maduro and his wife. The couple was flown to the US to face charges.
According to US court documents, Maduro has been indicted on charges including narco-terrorism conspiracy, conspiracy to import cocaine and illegal weapons-related offences. The indictment alleges that Maduro facilitated the trafficking of large quantities of cocaine to the United States over several decades while holding senior public offices in Venezuela. Maduro and Venezuelan authorities have previously rejected such accusations.
