Italy has hailed Norway-mediated talks between the government of Venezuela's president Nicolas Maduro and the US-backed opposition that are now underway in Mexico City.
"The foreign ministry expresses satisfaction at the announcement of the start in Mexico City of negotiations between the authorities and opposition forces of Venezuela, with the mediation of Norway, for the search for a solution to the political and humanitarian crisis in the South American country, which deserves our support," read the statement.
"Italy, together with the European Union and the International Contact Group, has consistently encouraged efforts aimed at seeking a democratic and peaceful Venezuelan-led solution to the crisis that allows the Venezuelan population to express themselves through credible local, parliamentary and presidential elections," the statement added.