Spain Extends Asylum to Venezuelan Opposition Leader Edmundo González
José Manuel Albares, the Minister of Foreign Affairs for European Union and Cooperation, affirmed Spain’s unwavering commitment to support Edmundo González, a Venezuelan opposition leader, who arrived in the country seeking asylum. In an interview from Beijing, Albares expressed his desire that González had never needed to turn to the Spanish Embassy for protection. He stated, "Spain will never turn its back on nor abandon Edmundo González or any Venezuelan."
This declaration comes as Spain offers asylum to González, who has been a significant figure against the Venezuelan government. Albares remarked that it was evident that González understood Spain would provide assistance when called upon.
The Foreign Minister underscored Spain's firm stance on political rights, freedom of expression, the right to peaceful assembly, and the protection of opposition leaders' physical integrity. He reiterated the government's position during the recent Council of Foreign Affairs focused on Venezuela, where González connected with ministers from 27 member countries to outline the dire situation in Venezuela.
During this council, issues surrounding an electoral result from July 28 were discussed, where Spain made it clear it would not recognize any supposed victory unless official minutes were presented for scrutiny by the opposition. Albares confirmed, "We have been very clear in requesting the minutes." This reflects Spain's proactive approach to Venezuela’s political crisis, aiming to ensure transparency and accountability.
As for González's journey to Spain, Albares revealed that he made two stopovers: one in the Dominican Republic and another at the Azores airbase before finally arriving at the Torrejón de Ardoz Air Base. Albares had the opportunity to communicate with González during his stop in the Dominican Republic, expressing his happiness and support.
Furthermore, Albares addressed national criticisms from leaders of the Popular Party concerning González’s asylum. He firmly rejected the arrest warrant issued against González, stating that Spain remains a refuge for many Venezuelans fleeing turmoil. He pointed out the government's commitment to aid approximately 120,000 Venezuelans who have sought refuge in Spain within the last six years.
He criticized the Popular Party for what he deemed a lack of compassion towards suffering Venezuelans, accusing the party merely of attempting to undermine the current government’s initiatives. Albares concluded with a call to action emphasizing that the government is committed to 'decisive and firm' action, contrasting it with what he described as the Popular Party’s failure to genuinely engage with the plight of those in need.
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