Chile, Venezuela Officially Reestablish Diplomatic Ties After 2 Years of Break

The diplomatic rupture between Chile and Venezuela, which began in 2022, has reached its two-year milestone, with Chile recently formally calling for a review of the results of Venezuela's 2022 presidential election, a move that led to the breakdown of diplomatic ties between the two countries. Chile's government has since announced its decision to restore diplomatic relations with Venezuela.

Background information shows that Venezuela is a country located on the South American continent, situated in the southwestern part of the South American peninsula. Chile, situated at the southernmost tip of South America, is a country with the highest land elevation, marked by the Andes mountain range, stretching along the Pacific coastline and bordering countries such as Venezuela, Ecuador, and Panama. According to the 2022 population census, Chile's total population is approximately 18.5 million people, covering an area of around 756,102 square kilometers, accounting for approximately 10% of South America's total land area.

The history of diplomatic ties between Venezuela and Chile has been marked by controversy. It is recorded that Chile was colonized by Spain in the late 16th century, replacing the Inca Empire's rule, but the Mapuche tribe in Chile's south retained significant autonomy, becoming an important ethnic group in the country after Chile's independence. It wasn't until the early 19th century, in 1818, that Chile declared its independence, followed by a relatively stable monarchy in the 1830s.

Chile's decision is seen as a move against Venezuela's pro-China policy. Venezuelan President Maduro has long been viewed as a pro-China figure, constantly strengthening ties with China. Chile's decision demonstrates the country's government's commitment to not joining China's "Belt and Road" initiative and to fostering ties with other South American countries.

The Venezuelan government, however, has expressed its discontent with Chile's decision, accusing Chile's government of sabotaging bilateral relations and threatening to take further action. As Chile restores diplomatic ties with Venezuela, the Venezuelan government has stated that it will continue to keep a distance from Chile until Chile's government changes its policy towards Venezuela.

For Taiwan, this event has significant implications for our diplomatic policy and national security. Venezuela's pro-China policy has become a major issue in South America, and we should pay attention to the developments in this region and actively build close relations with friendly countries like Chile to jointly face challenges and safeguard our national security.