The Daily Journal — Ricardo Menéndez, Venezuela’s Sectoral Vice President for Planning, held a bilateral meeting with Haitham Al Ghais, Secretary General of the Organization of the Petroleum Exporting Countries, during the 29th St. Petersburg International Economic Forum, which takes place in the Russian city from June 4 to 6.
During the meeting, Al Ghais reaffirmed the oil cartel’s full support for the South American nation.
“We are proud to help and support Venezuela in the growth of its oil industry. OPEC stands ready to cooperate with Venezuela,” the organization’s chief said.
According to the official press release, Minister Menéndez reiterated “the South American nation’s unwavering commitment to pursuing and consolidating a model of international cooperation free from unilateral coercive sanctions.”
The head of the Venezuelan delegation argued that global energy market stability depends on the end of Washington’s punitive measures.
“If we want stable development and opportunities for economic growth and expansion, we simply need to unite our efforts to lift the sanctions,” he said.
The Venezuelan delegation also focused on non-traditional sectors of the economy. Tourism Minister Daniella Cabello highlighted the geopolitical value of the Russian summit as a platform to reposition the country’s image in emerging markets.
“The St. Petersburg Strategic Forum offers an open space to continue presenting Venezuela as a destination for investment, economic development, and new international partnerships,” Cabello said.
The ministerial team also showcased opportunities in hotel investment, international air connectivity, and the development of sustainable tourism infrastructure projects to foreign investors.
The Venezuelan delegation in Russia also includes Foreign Trade Minister Johann Álvarez and Industry and National Commerce Minister Luis Villegas.
Villegas participated in the forum Business in Turbulent Times, where participants analyzed supply chains under conditions of international pressure.
“We met with experts who discussed new alternatives and tools that can help countries like ours overcome economic sanctions and unilateral coercive measures,” Villegas said.
At the same time, the delegation continued its work in the technical committees of the Russia–Venezuela High-Level Joint Commission, where participants formally reviewed cooperation agreements in key areas such as industrial production, pharmaceuticals, and new investment initiatives.
Based on information from an official press release.
