By Sue-Ann Wayow

OPEN diplomatic channels will be maintained as the governments of Venezuela and Trinidad and Tobago discuss national security.

Minister of Foreign and Caricom Affairs Sean Sobers and Venezuelan Ambassador to Trinidad and Tobago Álvaro Sánchez Cordero met on Monday at the ministry headquarters in Port of Spain.

The ministry stated in a media release, “During the meeting, Minister Sobers and Ambassador Sánchez recognised the importance of the longstanding fraternal relationship as neighbouring countries that share strong cultural and historical ties.

“Both sides also discussed matters of mutual interest and concern, inclusive of recent events with Minister Sobers reiterating the Government of the Republic Trinidad and Tobago’s previous request for information from the Government of the Bolivarian Republic of Venezuela.

“Arising out of the discussions, it was agreed that in the spirit of constructive dialogue, open diplomatic channels would be maintained with a view to ensuring that the exchange of information is fair, transparent and consistent.”

Last Thursday, at the post Cabinet media briefing, Defence Minister Wayne Sturge mentioned that Sobers would have reached out to Venezuelan authorities regarding claims made by its government that a paramilitary group entered Venezuela from Trinidad and included a Trinidadian.

On Monday, Opposition Leader Pennelope Beckles said she was awaiting to see what action the Ministry of Foreign and Caricom Affairs would take in dealing with the matter with prudence and diplomacy.