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<p>I am concerned by reports of excessive use of force in protests, and reports of
armed groups using violence. I condemn all acts of violence and call on all sides
to show restraint. It is important that the Venezuelan government respects the right
to protest peacefully and ensures public security. The Government has called for all
sides to take steps to avoid confrontation, reduce tensions and to create the right
conditions for genuine dialogue to take place.</p><p>My right hon. Friend the Member
for East Devon (Hugo Swire MP) has written to the Venezuelan government emphasising
the importance of respecting peaceful protest and the importance of dialogue to take
place between the parties. He has offered the UK's assistance in the reconciliation
process and asked to speak to his Venezuelan opposite number. The British Embassy
in Caracas urges peaceful dialogue through its contacts with a range of actors in
Venezuelan society.</p>
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