Venezuela government and opposition extend political talks

The Venezuelan government and opposition have extended the second round of political negotiations until Friday, September 25. Originally scheduled to conclude on Wednesday, the extension is attributed to delays in the start of this new phase. The talks, which began on September 17 in Caracas, are being facilitated by the United States.

Key topics under discussion include political guarantees, freedom of expression, and the right to information. The opposition delegation has also met with civil society organizations and families of political detainees to address human rights concerns.

Additionally, the parties are reviewing commitments from the first cycle of talks, including the renewal of magistrates for the Supreme Tribunal of Justice (TSJ). Another significant issue involves the management of Venezuelan gold reserves held at the Bank of England; reports suggest a potential agreement to transfer approximately $4 billion in reserves to the Federal Reserve Bank of New York to address consequences from recent earthquakes.