By Gizem Nisa Cebi
ISTANBUL (AA) - G7 foreign ministers representing Canada, France, Germany, Italy, Japan, the UK and the US, alongside the European Union’s High Representative, expressed strong concern Thursday over Venezuela’s recent presidential election.
In a joint statement released by the EU, they expressed solidarity with Venezuelans, who "peacefully exercised their right to vote in large numbers on July 28 to shape the future of their country."
The ministers highlighted significant issues raised by independent observers regarding the electoral process, citing "irregularities and a lack of transparency in the final tabulation of the votes."
They stressed that "it is of paramount importance that the result reflects the will of the Venezuelan people."
The G7 called for the immediate publication of detailed electoral results, demanding "full transparency" and urging electoral representatives to share information with opposition and independent observers.
They also appealed for "maximum restraint in the country" and a "peaceful, democratic and Venezuelan-led solution" as the situation develops.
On July 28, Venezuela held presidential elections, with incumbent President Nicolas Maduro securing 51% of the vote against 44% received by opposition leader Edmundo Gonzalez, according to the National Electoral Council (CNE).
The opposition claimed the following day that the results were fraudulent.
Protests over these claims have led to 17 deaths, including one soldier, in clashes between security forces and protesters.