Response of the official representative of the Foreign Ministry of Russia M.

Question: Information appeared in the media about the detention of a group of Russian citizens in this country by Venezuelan law enforcement agencies, as well as about the activities of the Russian-Venezuelan Chamber of Commerce and its relations with the Russian Embassy. What can you say about this?

M. .. Zakharova: We are aware of reports about the detention of a group of Russian citizens present in this country by Venezuelan law enforcement agencies. Relevant information is being checked by the Russian Embassy, which sent an official inquiry to the Venezuelan authorities, including about the nature of the alleged accusations.

In case the fact of detention, Russian citizens will certainly be provided with the necessary consular assistance.

Regarding media reports on the activities of the Russian-Venezuelan Chamber of Commerce, according to available data, this structure is an autonomous mediation organization, declaring a commitment to assist in the development of trade and economic relations between the two countries.

At the same time, we do not see any reason for public comments regarding the practical results of her activities, as well as the relationship with the Embassy of the Russian Federation in Caracas, although, of course, we have our own estimates on this account.

Real bilateral cooperation is coordinated by the Russian-Venezuelan High-Level Commission (KVU), which works under the leadership of the Deputy Prime Minister of the Russian Federation and Executive Vice-President of Venezuela, as well as the Business Council #RussiaVenezuela.