Panama replies to Venezuelan diplomatic and trade shock

PANAMA’S Government expressed surprise, at the decision taken by the Government of Venezuela to break diplomatic and trade relations
A statement echoed a Twitter response from President Ricardo Martinelli, blamed by Venezuela for the rift.
“Panama only longs that a sister nation finds peace and strengthens democracy. We reject that the Panamanian initiative constitutes an interference in Venezuelan affairs. The same initiative was taken by the Government of Venezuela in 1989, just as Panama lived through a similar situation.
“We took action for peace by promoting a meeting at the Organization of American States, with the sole purpose of helping the different actors in that sister country , to strengthen democracy and human rights, we do not understand the fears of the Venezuelan Government
“ The Venezuelan Government 's response to this peace initiative has been to claim that the solution of internal problems is to enter into an international conflict , which is clearly a mistake.
“We reject as unacceptable, insults uttered by President Nicolas Maduro against our country and its highest authority. The foul language used is inappropriate for the president of a neighboring country.
“The measure announced by the government of President Nicolas Maduro and the language used to it, should not become a smokescreen seeking to deny their own reality.
“Despite the measures taken by the Government of Venezuela, Panama reiterates its call on all sectors of Venezuelan society, to promptly initiate a dialogue to reach a solution between Venezuelans and hopes that peace and tranquility are achieved.
“Above all we believe that the key is to maintain dialogue fraternity and brotherhood of our peoples, the same goal was once the dream of Bolivar, ideals that the Venezuelan government says it shares.