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Citizens of Singapore, Malaysia, Thailand, India, and the Philippines have been urged to defer all travel to Venezuela, and those currently there are to remain vigilant and adhere to local authorities’ instructions.
As the situation in Caracas, Venezuela continues to draw global attention, several countries across Asia have shared their views, reflecting a range of official responses.
Here is a summary of statements issued by the Foreign Affairs ministries/departments in Singapore, Malaysia, Thailand, the Philippines, and India:
Singapore
Singapore's Ministry of Foreign Affairs (MFA) said it was "deeply concerned" by the situation, stating that the country is "deeply committed international law and the principles of the UN Charter that safeguard the independence, sovereignty and territorial integrity of all states, especially small states."
"Singapore has consistently opposed actions contrary to international law by any parties, including foreign military intervention in any country."
The Ministry urged all parties to exercise restraint in hopes for a peaceful resolution to the situation in Venezuela in accordance with international law and the principles of the UN Charter.
There are currently no Singaporeans e-registered with MFA in Venezuela, and Singaporeans have been advised to defer all travel there in this period.
Malaysia
Over in Malaysia, the Ministry of Foreign Affairs said it is closely monitoring the unfolding developments, affirming that Malaysia "opposes all forms of foreign intervention in the internal affairs of other States, as well as the threat or use of force."
"At this critical time, it is crucial for the concerned parties to exercise maximum restraint, and seek peaceful solutions through dialogue and diplomacy," the Ministry added.
The Embassy of Malaysia in Caracas is actively monitoring the situation and has established contact with registered Malaysians in the country, and all confirmed registered citizens are currently safe and accounted for. The Embassy has also assured that it stands ready to provide necessary consular assistance should the need arise.
MFA Malaysia advised Malaysians in Venezuela to reach out to the Embassy of Malaysia should they require consular assistance:
- Telephone: (58-212) 720 4257
- Email: mwcaracas@kln.gov.my
"The Ministry will continue to actively monitor developments and will issue further updates as appropriate. Malaysians in Venezuela are advised to remain vigilant, follow local authorities’ instructions, and maintain close communication with the Embassy."
Thailand
The Ministry of Foreign Affairs in Thailand has urged all parties involved to "resolve the conflict peacefully with full respect for the UN Charter and international law, exercising the utmost restraint to avoid a further escalation, while prioritising the protection of civilians and respecting the will of the Venezuelan people."
It added that the Royal Thai Embassy in Lima, Peru, which is accredited to Venezuela, remains in close coordination with Thai nationals in Venezuela and stands ready to provide necessary assistance.
The Ministry also advised Thai nationals to carefully assess the situation and reconsider non-essential travel to the area at this time.
Philippines
"While acknowledging the United States' underlying security considerations, the Philippines stresses the relevant principles of international law, including the independence and sovereign equality of states, the peaceful resolution of disputes, the prohibition against the threat or use of force, and non-interference in the domestic affairs of sovereign states," the Department of Foreign Affairs shared on 5 January.
In that vein, it called upon the concerned parties to respect international law, including the UN Charter, exercise restraint to prevent escalation of conflict, restore peace and order in Venezuela and promote the safety and wellbeing of all the people, including its citizens living in Venezuela and the surrounding countries.
India
The Ministry of External Affairs India has advised Indian nationals to avoid all non-essential travel to Venezuela.
"All Indians who are in Venezuela for any reason are advised to exercise extreme caution, restrict their movements, and remain in contact with Embassy of India in Caracas."
The Ministry has also shared the Embassy of India's details should assistance be required:
- Telephone: +58-412-9584288 (also for WhatsApp calls)
- Email: cons.caracas@mea.gov.in
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