The President of the Bolivarian Republic of Venezuela, Nicolás Maduro Moros, reaffirmed that the defense of the territorial integrity and natural resources of the country is irrevocably based on the National Constitution. The national leader publicly read fundamental articles of the Constitution, emphasizing that the nation is irrevocably free and independent and that its actions are based on the doctrine of the Liberator Simón Bolívar.
During his address, the Head of State recalled the inalienable rights of the nation, enshrined in Article 1 of the Constitution. He listed independence, freedom, sovereignty, immunity, territorial integrity, and national self-determination as principles that constitute the basis of the Republic and guide the actions of the Venezuelan people in the defense of the homeland.
Subsequently, he cited Article 12 of the Constitution, which he described as vital for the debate on international legality. This article establishes that the mineral and hydrocarbon deposits of the national territory, including those of the seabed, are assets of the public domain, inalienable and imprescriptible, belonging exclusively to the Republic.
Similarly, he proceeded to read Article 13. This article states that the national territory may not be ceded, transferred, leased, or alienated, even temporarily or partially, to foreign states. It also establishes that Venezuelan geographical space is a «zone of peace» where no foreign military bases may be established.
Likewise, he reiterated that this constitutional exposition represents a reminder that Venezuela acts within its legal framework. He stressed that it is completely illegal, according to international law and the Constitution itself, to prevent free naval trade to any country, in a clear allusion to the actions of the United States government.
In this context, President Nicolás Maduro ratified that Venezuela will continue with its maritime exports despite the blockade measures imposed by imperialism. He expressed his certainty in the unified response of the people, in perfect civic-military-police cooperation, to uphold their historical rights over the land, oil, minerals, and all the riches of the national territory.
Finally, he assured that the country will continue to trade its natural resources in strict adherence to the Constitution and the legacy of the Liberator Simón Bolívar. He stated that these documents permanently establish that the land and its resources belong to their sole legitimate owner: the sovereign people of Venezuela.