Cancellation of presidential meeting frustrates illusion of families of Colombian prisoners in Venezuela
Javier Giraldo arrived on Friday with a dozen other people at the Atanasio Girardot international bridge, which connects Colombia with Venezuela, hoping to raise a banner asking for his father's release from a Venezuelan jail during the meeting planned by the presidents of both countries. By Associated Press But his hope [...]
TL;DR
- A meeting between the Colombian and Venezuelan presidents was canceled due to 'force majeure.'
- Families of Colombian citizens detained in Venezuelan prisons had hoped the meeting would facilitate their release.
- Detained Colombians are described by their families as innocent political prisoners accused of fabricated charges.
- Venezuelan organization Foro Penal reports at least eight Colombians and 11 Colombo-Venezuelans in Venezuelan jails.
- Some Colombian prisoners have been released due to diplomatic efforts, but many families continue to wait.
- The canceled meeting was intended to address the release of these prisoners, with families expressing ongoing hope for intervention.
- A joint statement indicated the meeting would occur at a later date without providing specifics.