The Bolivarian Republic of Venezuela assumed the Presidency of the Group of Latin American and Caribbean Countries (GRULAC) to the International Organizations based in Vienna, a responsibility it will hold during the second half of 2026, with a commitment to strengthening regional cooperation and promoting coordinated action by the Group in defense of the common interests of Latin America and the Caribbean.
During the handover ceremony, Ambassador Claudia Salerno Caldera, Permanent Representative of Venezuela to the International Organizations in Vienna, received the Presidency of the Regional Group from Ambassador Alejandro Garófali Acosta, Permanent Representative of the Eastern Republic of Uruguay. The delegations present expressed their appreciation for the management performed by Uruguay as a leader of the mechanism during the previous semester.
In her acceptance speech, Ambassador Salerno expressed her gratitude for the solidarity and support received from Latin American and Caribbean countries following the earthquakes that struck Venezuela last June 24, a gesture she highlighted as a demonstration of the spirit of brotherhood and cooperation that characterizes GRULAC.
The diplomat presented the work plan that will guide the Venezuelan Presidency, focused on strengthening political coordination among member states, the impulse of an ongoing dialogue, and the consolidation of common positions on the main issues of the multilateral agenda.
Venezuela’s administration will also be geared toward showcasing the strengths, capabilities, and contributions of Latin America and the Caribbean in the areas of development, international cooperation, the peaceful uses of nuclear energy, the fight against drugs and crime, inclusive and sustainable industrial development, and the peaceful utilization of ultra-terrestrial space—areas in which the Vienna-based organizations play a strategic role.
With this Presidency, the Bolivarian Republic of Venezuela, through the Bolivarian Diplomacy of Peace, reaffirms its commitment to strengthening multilateralism, respect for International Law, cooperation among peoples, and the unity of Latin America and the Caribbean as fundamental pillars to face global challenges and advance towards a more just, balanced, and truly multipolar international order.