Venezuela and the U.S. Begin Historic Dialogue with Proposal for “Zero Agenda”

This initiative seeks to establish a framework for open, transparent, and public dialogue, with the goal of reviewing and refining the necessary aspects to normalize relations, always based on consensus and without impositions. Jan 2025 Photo: VTV

January 31, 2025 Hour: 4:59 pm

The President of the Bolivarian Republic of Venezuela, Nicolás Maduro Moros, received this Thursday at the Miraflores Palace the special envoy of the United States government, Richard Grenell, in a meeting that marks a milestone in bilateral relations between the two nations.

The meeting, held in the Simón Bolívar Hall, aimed to explore ways to resume dialogue between Caracas and Washington, based on principles of mutual respect and sovereignty.

Grenell, appointed by U.S. President Donald Trump as a presidential envoy for special missions on December 14, 2024, was welcomed by President Maduro, who proposed the creation of a “Zero Agenda” to address pending issues between the two countries.

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During the meeting, President Maduro showed the U.S. envoy various historical relics symbolizing the anti-imperialist struggle of the Liberator Simón Bolívar, including the sword of the Hero of American Independence.

This gesture, according to sources close to the meeting, sought to highlight the importance of sovereignty and self-determination as fundamental pillars in any negotiation.

President Maduro reiterated his willingness to maintain respectful dialogue with the U.S. government, recalling that Venezuela has always extended bridges for conversation.

For his part, Grenell expressed the interest of the Trump administration in reopening communication channels and elevating the level of bilateral relations through constructive negotiations.

This approach comes after President Trump, following his inauguration on January 20, stated in several press conferences his willingness to reestablish contact with Venezuela.

The proposal of the “Zero Agenda” represents a significant step toward the normalization of relations, although both governments agree that any progress must be based on respect for sovereignty and non-interference in internal affairs.