06/29/2009

U.S. and Venezuela Agree to Resume Full Diplomatic Representation Agreement improves bilateral communication, enhances U.S. outreach

U.S. DEPARTMENT OF STATE

Office of the Spokesman

June 25, 2009
http://www.america.gov/st/texttrans-english/2009/June/20090625150016eaifas0.9157984.html#ixzz0Jmi6qjFJ&D
STATEMENT BY IAN KELLY, SPOKESMAN

The United States and Venezuela Agree to Resume Full Diplomatic Representation

Through an exchange of diplomatic notes, the United States and Venezuela have agreed to rescind the declarations of persona non grata issued in September 2008 and return U.S. Ambassador Patrick D. Duddy and Venezuelan Ambassador Bernardo Álvarez to their respective posts in Caracas and Washington.

An experienced career diplomat, Ambassador Duddy enjoys the full confidence of President Obama and Secretary Clinton. With his return, full diplomatic representation will resume. This important step will help advance U.S. interests by improving bilateral communication and enhancing our outreach to the Venezuelan people.