On July 28, presidential elections were held in the Bolivarian Republic of Venezuela. According to data published by the National Electoral Council, after processing 80 percent of the votes, incumbent President Nicolas Maduro, a candidate from the United Socialist Party, received 51.2 percent. His main rival, Edmundo Gonzalez representing the Unitary Democratic Platform of Venezuela, received 44.2 percent. Voter turnout was 59 percent.

President of the Russian Federation Vladimir Putin sent a message to President of Venezuela Nicolas Maduro, congratulating him on his victory.

The well-organised elections took place in a peaceful and calm setting, without any serious violations, despite ongoing public security challenges. Statements by international observers confirm this. According to the Russian delegation, which included members of the Federation Council, the State Duma, the Central Election Commission and NGOs, the voting process was transparent and unbiased.

Russia is pleased to note the success of the election in Venezuela and reaffirms its commitment to strengthening bilateral relations in the spirit of strategic partnership, as well as continuing close coordination at international and regional platforms.

At the same time, Moscow has taken note of statements by a number of countries passing judgement on the recognition or non-recognition of the voting results. Russia believes that genuine democracy means the sovereignty of the people. Only the people have a right to decide, without external interference, who will govern the state.

In this connection, Russia urges all political forces inside and outside Venezuela to refrain from provocative actions that could destabilise the situation in the country and undermine regional stability. We hope that the well-known political wisdom of the great Latin American leader Benito Juarez will prevail: “Respect for the rights of others means peace.”